Maize (Zea mays L.) is a crucial global cereal crop for food, feed, and industrial use. This study explored the introgression of Zea nicaraguensis into maize lines LM13 and LM14 to enhance kernel traits. The BC1 F2 individuals, were compared with diverse maize varieties, including hybrids, popcorn, inbreds, sweet corn, and composites. Kernel traits were assessed through qualitative and quantitative analyses. Results showed significant genetic diversity, with LM13 lines exhibiting greater kernel length variability and LM14 lines displaying diverse kernel colours. Flint kernels predominated, indicating resilience and suitability for breeding. Heritability analysis revealed moderate heritability for endosperm colour, while genetic advance values indicated substantial potential for improving kernel dimensions and hundred-seed weight. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified kernel dimension traits, colour of top of the grain and hundred-seed weight, and endosperm colour as key differentiators, highlighting the genetic diversity within BC1 F2 lines. This study underscored the importance of wild relatives in maize breeding, providing insights for developing resilient, high-performing maize varieties to support sustainable agriculture and food security.
Seven advanced lines/varieties of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) were selected for building the experimental materials. It consisted of 3 lines and 4 testers, mated in Line×Tester design during rabi season 2021-22. Fifteen parameters, including seed yield per plant (g), glucosinolate content (µmole/g), oil content (%), and erucic acid content (%), were assessed in RBD during the rabi season of 2022–2023 for parental lines and their 12 F1 s. Analysis of variance for combining ability showed significant differences amid treatments for all the characters; except for seeds per siliqua and siliqua density. Tester PWR 13-8 was a good combiner for a maximum of eight traits, including seed yield per plant and oil content. Lines NRCHB-101 and Kranti were good combiners for seed yield per plant. The cross-combination Giriraj × Heera for seed yield per plant, NRCHB-101 × PWR 13-8 for glucosinolate content, Kranti × PWR 13-8 for oil content, and Kranti × Donskaja for erucic acid content had the highest significant SCA effect. Cross combination Kranti × PWR 13-8 showed the highest mid-parent and better-parent heterosis for seed yield per plant. Cross-combination NRCHB-101 × PWR 13-8 showed the highest economic heterosis (222.81**) for seed yield per plant along with high estimates, i.e., -17.24** for mid-parent heterosis, -22.06** for better-parent heterosis and 26.88** for economic heterosis, for glucosinolate content. Cross Kranti × PWR 13-8 showed the highest mid-parent heterosis (5.97**), and Giriraj × Bio YSR showed the highest better-parent (5.07**) and economic heterosis (9.11**) for oil content.
A field experiment was convened at A-2 block (Rice Agronomy block) Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar on a sandy loam soil (Mollisol) during Kharif 2022 for the experiment of “study the impact of Nano Urea application under graded N rates on growth, productivity and nitrogen use efficiency of transplanted rice”. The soil was neutral in pH (7.5), medium in Organic Carbon content (0.64%), Low in Nitrogen (177.6 Kg/ha), moderate in Phosphorus (19.6 Kg/ha), and medium in Potassium (198.3 Kg/ha). The study was conducted using Randomized block design in 9 treatments and each has 3 replications and the Rice variety Dhan-24(PD-24) was used. The treatments embodied of T1 (100% RDN), T2 (75% RDN), T3 (50% RDN + 2 Foliar Spray of Nano Urea (AT, PI)), T4 (75% RDN + 2 Foliar Spray of Nano Urea (AT, PI)), T5 (100% RDN + 2 Foliar Spray of Nano Urea (AT, PI)), T6 (50% RDN + 2 Foliar Spray of Urea (AT, PI)), T7 (75% RDN + 2 Foliar Spray of Urea (AT, PI)), T8 (100% RDN (1/3 + 1/3 + 1/3 ) + 2 Foliar Spray of Nano Urea (AT, PI)) and T9 (Control).The growth parameters were considerably influenced by different treatment at 30, 60, and 90 days after Transplanting (DAT) and upon reaching the maturity. At initial stages of crop growth, T1 has reported significantly higher plant height, tiller m-2, dry matter accumulation and SPAD value. But as the crop grew farther, the treatment T8 had much higher growth parameters that were comparable to those of T5. The yield attributing characters (number of panicles m-2, number of filled spikelet per panicle, number of unfilled spikelet per panicle, spikelet sterility, and grain weight per panicle) were significantly affected by various treatments. However, panicle length, number of spikelet per panicle and 1000 grain weight were found to be non- significant. The treatment T8 reported significantly higher yield attributes which were at par with T5. The treatment T8 also reported the highest grain, straw, and biological yields which were 11.9%, 8.5%, and 9.9% higher than T1 respectively. However, harvest index was not significantly affected by various treatments. The economics of rice production was also significantly affected by various treatments reporting the highest gross returns, net returns and B/C ratio in T8.
Drought is the one of the most hazardous abiotic stress resulting in huge losses to crop yield worldwide. Plants have evolved diverse ways to eliminate the harmful effect of different stresses. The acquisition of important plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in rhizosphere is the most effective mechanisms acquired by plants to ameliorate different stresses in soil. The objective of the research was to isolate, screen and characterized important PGP bacterial isolates along with potential of drought stress tolerance in Poly ethyle glycol (PEG)-6000 amended medium. About 232 bacterial isolates were isolated from different crop rhizosphere and subjected to drought stress tolerance assessment. Finally, 05 isolates were screened on the basis of critical drought tolerance and PGP characteristics (Zinc solubilization, Phosphate solubilization, siderophore production) under lab condition. The selected isolates were characterized morphologically, biochemically and through molecular methods using 16SrDNA region. The isolates will further act as repository of PGP characteristics along with water stress tolerance which can be tested and applied in field condition for plant stress amelioration.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form symbiotic relationships with approximately 80% of terrestrial plants, enhancing root surface area and interacts with the rhizosphere. Glomalin-related soil protein (GRSP), a glycoprotein secreted by AMF, influences soil quality and promotes plant growth. This study investigates the effects of exogenously applied GRSP on finger millet seed germination in vitro. Two concentrations of GRSP were administered to observe it effect on root length, shoot length, and biomass production. Results showed that half-strength GRSP significantly enhances seedling growth, while full-strength exhibited zero to inhibitory effects. The root growth, shoot growth, biomass and seedling vigour index increased in GRSP treated MS media compared to control by nearly 70%, 81%, 43% and 75 % respectively. Comparative studies suggested a parallel perspective on the growth-promoting role of GRSP. The positive impact of EE-GRSP on finger millet seeds aligns with its humic acid-like properties, yet higher concentrations may contain impurities hindering growth. Hence, this study exhibits that GRSP is a potential growth promoter for finger millet.
The present study was conducted to evaluate the Rating Scale of Pedological Development in Humid Moisture Regime of Guava Growing Soils in North-East Region of Haryana during 2021-23. For this fifteen representative pedons were excavated from five districts (Ambala, Yamunanagar, Karnal, Kurukshetra, and Kaithal). The morphological characteristics of all the pedons under study were examined in situ in the field and horizon-wise soil samples were collected to analyze for chemical characteristics in the laboratory at Department of Soil Science CCS HAU, Hisar. To evaluate pedological development of soil pedons two modified rating scales i.e. , Relative Horizon Distinctness (RHD) and Relative Profile Development (RPD) were used. The results obtained from all soil pedons were found to have RHD and RPD ratings varying from 0-10 & 3-11, 0-15 & 0-19 for two geomorphic units i.e., recent and old alluvial plains, respectively. The data of field morphology rating scale indicated development of Guava Growing Soils in humid moisture regime pedologically to the order of old alluvial plains >recent alluvial plains. Application of these rating scale and suggested modification on some soils of North-East Haryana, achieved the chronosequence, as well as, the diagnostic horizons of soils which belong to Inceptisols and Alfisols order have higher values of RPD than the soils belong to Entisols orders. So, the rating scale can be used for comparing the development of soils pedologically in humid climatic regimes.
Application of urea in agriculture is crucial but often leads to nitrogen loss, prompting the global adoption of sulfur-coated urea (SCU) to mitigate these challenges. SCU enhances crop production, reduces nitrogen loss, and improves environmental impact by releasing nitrogen slowly, thus boosting nitrogen use efficiency, crop growth, yield, and grain quality. Additionally, SCU addresses nutrient deficiencies and synergizes with other nutrients in crops. A field experiment conducted at Agro Research Farm of Gujarat State Fertilizers and Chemicals Limited, Vadodara, India, during the kharif season of 2023, compared SCU and Neem Coated Urea (NCU) on paddy crops, revealing significant effects on growth parameters, yield attributes, and nutrient content in grain. Superior results were obtained by applying 100% RDN (Recommended Dose of Nitrogen) from SCU with three splits; in general, greater RDN levels outperformed with lesser dosages. Nutrient analysis indicated improvements in nitrogen and phosphorus content in paddy grain with SCU application compared to NCU. Overall, SCU demonstrated superior performance in enhancing growth parameters and yield attributes of the paddy crop, offering promise for enhancing agricultural sustainability.
The study investigates the spatial and temporal dynamics of sheath blight, a significant production constraint in rice cultivation, in Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand, India. Data from 19 sampling sites across 8 tehsils were collected during the Kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023. Disease incidence was calculated, and a Tukey test was performed to analyze differences between areas. Geostatistical techniques, including Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) interpolation, were used to map disease distribution. Results indicate significant differences in disease incidence between areas, with some areas consistently showing higher or lower incidence rates. Notably, the tehsils of Kashipur and Rudrapur exhibited the highest incidence rates, while Kichha and Sitarganj showed the lowest. The study highlights the importance of spatial analysis in understanding disease dynamics.
One crucial use of remote sensing in agriculture is crop type mapping and area estimation. Recently, crop categorization has seen a rise in the use of machine-learning classification approaches. Google Earth Engine (GEE), a platform where users can explore a variety of satellite data sets without even downloading the satellite data and provides several powerful classification techniques. The main objective of this study is to explore the ability of different machine learning classification techniques like Random Forest (RF), K-Nearest Neighbour (KNN), Classification And Regression Trees (CART), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Minimum Distance (MD) for crop classification using Google Earth Engine (GEE). Sentinel-2, MSI (10 m) Level-2A_SR dataset was used for crop type mapping and sugarcane area estimation for Udham Singh Nagar district for the year 2022-2023. Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) image composite were created at less than 10% cloud cover and using this we can easily identify the sugarcane area from other areas like other crops, forest, water bodies and buildings. Post classification, accuracy assessment analysis was done through the generation of the confusion matrix (producer and user accuracy), and F1 score. The results indicate that using GEE through a cloud platform, satellite data accessing, filtering, and pre-processing of satellite data can be performed very efficiently. In terms of overall classification accuracy and F1 score, RF (97.88%, 97.31%) classifier performed better than SVM (95.61%, 94.42%), MD (94.96, 93.60%), KNN (94.47%, 92.98%), and CART (90.57%, 88.01%) classifiers in the respective growing season of sugarcane.
The study was performed to study seasonal incidence of major pests affecting sesame from July to September at Pantnagar, 2021. The occurrences of till hawk moth Acherontia styx Westwood; Bihar hairy caterpillar Spilarctia obliqua Walker; leaf webber Antigastra catalaunalis (Duponchel); whitefly Bemisia tabaci Gennadius and leaf hopper Orosius albicinctus Distant were monitored during this period. The findings reveal specific patterns of pest emergence and population dynamics. Till hawk moth larvae initially appeared at the end of July, reaching peak infestation by late August before declining and disappearing by the end of September. The population showed various correlations with abiotic factors, with significant positive correlations observed with minimum relative humidity and rainfall. Similarly, Bihar hairy caterpillar and leaf webber showed distinct emergence patterns and correlations with meteorological parameters. Whitefly incidence started in late July, peaking in late August, with correlations indicating positive associations with minimum temperature, maximum relative humidity, minimum relative humidity and rainfall. Leaf hopper population dynamics showed an initial increase from early August to mid-September, with correlations suggesting positive relationships with maximum temperature, wind velocity, evaporation and sunshine hours.
Glycine max (L.) Merrill, belonging to the family Fabaceae, is one of the oldest oilseed crops grown throughout the world. Being an important source of soy milk and cheese, the crop is also known as the "Cow of the field" and "Gold from Soil" in China. The present investigation was carried out to evaluate Trichoderma isolates against Rhizoctonia solani for their antagonistic potential through dual culture, volatile, and non-volatile assays. Trichoderma species were isolated from rhizospheric soils from different geographical regions of Uttarakhand (Plains, Kumaon, and Garhwal divisions). Fifty-two Trichoderma spp. isolates were evaluated for their ability to parasitize and inhibit R. solani. Two isolates, Trichoderma asperellum PATB-7 and PATB-41, achieved 100% parasitization of R. solani after 12 days after contact (DAC) through dual culture technique. In volatile compound assays, T. asperellum PATB-15 (62.92%) and PATB-41 (62.08%) showed inhibition of R. solani mycelial growth. Non-volatile metabolite studies using 10 selected isolates revealed T. asperellum PATB-41 as the most effective, inhibiting R. solani mycelial growth by 30.83% at 25% concentration and 61.62% at 50% concentration, followed by T1- Trichoderma asperellum PATB-7 (54.58%). These isolates could be further used for glasshouse and field conditions for eco-friendly management of aerial blight of soybean.
The present investigation was carried out on okra seeds during 2018-20, which comprised of three botanicals as seed dressers @ 100g/kg viz. , Pongamia pinnata, Azadiracta indica and Curcuma longa leaf powders along with control. The seeds coated with the above botanicals were stored in three different containers viz. polythene bag, hermetic bag and metal box under ambient conditions and their quality was assessed at a regular interval of three months. A significant decline was observed in all the treatments as the period of ageing was augmented. Seeds coated with Azadiracta indica powder and stored in a metal box recorded significantly higher germination percentage (71.9%), shoot length (8.2 cm), root length (6.0 cm), seedling dry weight (0.195 g), vigour index-I (1021), vigour index-II (14.03), catalase (198.9 mg/protein/min), superoxidase dismustase (132.2 mg/protein/min), dehydrogenase (0.46 OD/g/ml), peroxidase (676 mg/protein/min) and lower electrical conductivity (1.036 μS/cm/g) after 18 months of storage as compared to control. The control showed germination (66.9%), shoot length (6.2 cm), root length (4.2 cm), seedling dry weight (0.166 g), vigour index-I (694), vigour index-II (11.09), catalase, superoxidase dismustase and peroxidase (134.8, 71.0 and 446.0 mg/protein/min) and higher electrical conductivity (1.100 μS/cm/g) at the end of storage period.
The present investigation was performed to study the effect of integrated weed management practices on growth parameters in vegetable pea (Pisum sativum L.) at Vegetable Research Centre, Govind Ballabh Pant university of Agriculture and Technology during rabi season of 2022-23. The experiment was set out in randomized block design along with three replications. During this research, the major weed species that were observed in the experimental plot were viz., Eleusine indica L., Cynodon dactylon L. Sorghum halepense L., Chenopodium album L. and Cyperus rotundus L. The experiment comprised of data on growth parameters were collected and analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results revealed that the performance of the growth parameters i.e., days to 50 % germination and days to 50 % flowering of vegetable pea was significantly influenced by different weed management treatments. Among herbicidal treatments, T5 (Pre emergence application of pinoxaden 5.1 EC @ 70 ml/ha was found to be the best with respect days to 50 % germination and T4 (Pre emergence application of pendimethalin 30 EC @ 1.0 kg a.i./ha with respect to days to 50 % flowering.
The present field study was conducted to investigate the influence of diverse mulching materials on soil moisture, weed biomass, and the vegetative and floral attributes of chrysanthemum cultivar Pusa Shwet. Among the various mulch treatments, plants grown in plots covered with black polyethylene exhibited the most favorable outcomes, including the tallest plants (87.37 cm), the maximum number of primary branches per plant (12.13), the highest number of leaves per plant (602.66), the greatest plant spread (44.34 cm), and the largest leaf area (18.17 cm, 2). Notably, the floral characteristics of these plants also surpassed the others, with the earliest days to bud appearance and flowering (78.60 and 106.13 days, respectively), the maximum flowering duration (41.46 days), the largest flower diameter (7.64 cm), the heaviest individual flower weight (3.00 g), the longest cut spray length (53.11 cm), the highest number of flowers per plant (135.26), and the longest vase life (19.86 days). Similarly, the plots mulched with black polyethylene displayed the lowest fresh and dry weed biomass, while the spent mushroom compost yielded the maximum soil moisture content, closely followed by the black polyethylene mulch. These findings collectively suggest that the application of black polyethylene mulch is an effective strategy for enhancing the vegetative and floral performance of chrysanthemum cultivar Pusa Shwet, while simultaneously reducing weed growth and maintaining optimal soil moisture levels, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of chrysanthemum cultivation.
Plant tissues face considerable stress from mechanical damage, especially during cutting and handling, leading to changes in color, texture and flavor due to enzyme and substrate disruption. These challenges complicate the production of fresh-cut onions. Edible coatings offer a promising solution by forming a protective barrier against moisture loss, oxidation and microbial growth, while preserving product quality. In this research, chitosan was investigated as an edible coating for fresh-cut onion at varying concentrations (ranging from 0.5% to 1.5%). Other variables taken into consideration were dipping time (5 min to 15 min), ultrasonication power (50 to 250 W) and ultrasonication time (15 min to 45 min). Various coating properties such as thickness and viscosity were examined. Process conditions were optimized using response surface methodology and fresh cut onion was then coated with chitosan edible coating prepared with optimized processing conditions (Chitosan concentration- 1%, dipping time- 10 min, ultrasonication power- 150 W and ultrasonication time- 30 min). Weight loss, texture and microbiological analysis of the coated samples were done. It was observed that the fresh cut onion could retain their microbiological safety up to 15 days in comparison to untreated fresh cut onion which had shelf life of only 6 days under refrigerated conditions at a temperature of 5± 2 0C. The coating could slow the rate of weight loss and texture loss in comparison to the raw samples. Hence, chitosan edible coating can be promising technology to produce fresh cut onion for up to 15 days in refrigerated conditions.
Banana is one of the most imperative fruit crop grown in India and serve as an essential staple food due to its availability throughout the year. The Grand Naine banana, is a high yielding cultivar and is one of the most popular banana varieties commonly grown in India. Green banana are a rich source of starch, which is a type of resistant starch. They act as a prebiotic and provide potential benefits to the gut. Therefore, the present study was conducted to develop an instant custard powder by using resistant starch obtained from Grand Naine banana. The fresh mature banana was peeled, sliced, dried at 50oC and powdered. Starch was isolated from the banana flour by a modified water-alkaline extraction process. The isolated starch was modified by autoclaving at 121°C for 30 minutes with a 10% moisture content. Custard powder was formulated by incorporating varying concentrations of resistant starch with corn flour and other ingredients across different treatments (T0- T6). Custard was prepared using these treatments were subjected to organoleptic evaluation. The best treatment was selected through organoleptic evaluation using a scorecard with a nine-point hedonic scale. Custard (T4) prepared by blending resistant starch (20 %), corn flour (15 %) and other ingredients (65 %) attained a maximum score for all organoleptic attributes (8.25). The physico-functional properties of custard powder showed moisture (6.25%) swelling power (1.67%), solubility (1.12%), bulk density (0.76g/ml) dispersibility (74.23%) and water absorption capacity (35.56%) and the addition of banana resistant starch to custard powder has successfully improved its functional properties without compromising its organoleptic qualities. Grand naine banana resistant starch has good functional properties and it is a great option for producing composite instant custard flour samples on a larger scale for health-conscious consumers.
The use of non-wood fiber sources in pulp and paper industry serves not only alternate to wood resources but also proposes solution to consume agricultural by-products and wastes produced in bulk in agricultural based country like India. The dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata) a green manure source, is an efficient non-wood resource for pulp production that can offer an effective means to produce quality paper besides packaging paper for which there is high demand. The processing of pulp further enables reduction in lignin content which enables development of finer and quality paper. The present research explored effect of different bleaching agents and their combinations on the optical properties of resultant pulp and paper. Bleaching process was carried out using four chemicals viz., Oxone, hydrogen peroxide, sodium dithionite, sodium hypochlorite and their combinations. The evaluation of optical properties of pulp was assessed in terms of brightness and whiteness using standard methods. Statistical analysis (one-way ANOVA) was done using SPSS software to establish relationship between different bleaching agents and the optical properties of the pulp. The results showed that the dhaincha pulp bleached with combination of oxone and hydrogen peroxide showed maximum brightness index (37.61) and whiteness index (67.72) in comparison to other chemicals.
The present study was undertaken on crossbred cattle utilizing the records of 567 daughters of 57 sires, spread over a period of 30 years from 1990 to 2019, maintained at Instructional Dairy Farm of G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand to study the inheritance pattern of different economic traits. The least squares mean (LSM) along with their standard errors of age at first calving (AFC), first service period (FSP), first dry period (FDP), first lactation length (FLL), first calving interval (FCI), first lactation peak yield (FLPY), days to attend peak yield (DPY), first lactation milk yield (FLMY) and first lactation 305-day milk yield (FL305DMY) were observed as 1268.85 ±16.75 days, 267.51 ± 1.93 days, 91.56 ± 1.86 days, 369.41 ± 6.68 days, 465.80 ± 6.64 days, 13.88 ± 0.17 kg, 39.76 ± 0.78 days, 3294.64 ± 77.93 kg and 2570.74 ± 38.30 kg, respectively. Significant effects of sire were found on AFC, FLPY, DPY, FLMY and FL305DMY. Significant effect of period of calving was observed on AFC, FSP, DPY, FLMY, and FL305DMY while non-significant effect was found on FDP, FLL, and FCI. The effect of season of calving was found non-significant for all the first lactation traits under study. The heritability estimates for the traits under study AFC, FSP, FDP, FLL, FCI, FLPY, DPY, FLMY and FL305DMY were observed as 0.34 ± 0.21, 0.10 ± 0.1, 0.12 ± 0.11, 0.45 ± 0.16, 0.32 ± 0.17, 0.42 ± 0.22, 0.40 ± 0.20, 0.54±0.19 and 0.59±0.20, respectively. Thus, it can be asserted that sire and non-genetic factors have significant effect on the production and reproduction trait in crossbred cattle. It is pertinent to pre adjust the data of environmental factors for evaluating genetic parameters of economically important traits.
Newcastle disease (ND), caused by avian paramyxovirus type 1 (APMV-1), is a highly contagious viral infection affecting poultry worldwide. The disease leads to substantial economic losses due to high mortality rates and reduced productivity. To combat ND, vaccination and monitoring of antibody titres are vital strategies. Mushroom waste, an underutilized by-product of mushroom production, has shown promise as a potential feed replacement for poultry due to its beneficial effects on growth and immune response. In this study, the impact of feeding Rhode Island Red (RIR) chickens with mushroom waste as a replacement for deoiled rice bran on their immunocompetence was evaluated for ND antibody titre. The feeding trial involved four groups: T1 (basal diet only), T2 (basal diet containing 1% mushroom waste), T3 (basal diet containing 2% mushroom waste), and T4 (basal diet containing 3% mushroom waste). Serum samples were collected at different time points after vaccination with ND vaccine (Lasota strain), and the HI titres were determined. Results demonstrated a significant positive impact of incorporating mushroom waste powder into the diet, with higher antibody titres observed in the T3 and T4 groups compared to the control group. The presence of bioactive compounds in mushrooms, such as polysaccharides (e.g., beta-glucans), proteins, minerals, and antioxidants, is believed to contribute to the observed immunomodulatory effects. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying the immunomodulatory effects of mushroom waste and explore its potential applications in promoting immune health in poultry.
The emergence of antibiotic resistance in poultry is common due to the continuous use of antibiotics for controlling major bacterial diseases like Escherichia coli infection. So, this study was planned to evaluate the use of plant extract Aloe vera as an alternative to fight against E. coli infection. The effect of A. vera leaf extract supplementation was assessed based on the severity of clinical signs and pathological lesions in E. coli-infected broiler chicks. Broiler chicks were supplemented with aqueous Aloe vera Leaf (AVL) extracts @ 20 ml per liter of water from day one of age. On the 8th day of age, group A2 and B2 birds were given E. coli O78 @ 107 CFU/0.5 ml intraperitoneally. The birds were sacrificed after 28 days of E. coli inoculation and examined for gross and histopathological lesions. Gross lesions observed were fibrinous pericarditis and perihepatitis, airsacculitis, peritonitis, enteritis, congestion in different visceral organs such as lung, spleen, liver, kidneys and intestines, and atrophy of bursa of Fabricius. Histopathological changes observed were fibrinous pericarditis and myocarditis, fibrinous perihepatitis; congestion, hemorrhages and mild oedema and infiltration of lymphocytes and macrophages in the alveoli and bronchiole. There was depletion of lymphocytes in the bursa of Fabricius. The protection on gross and histopathological lesions of E. coli infection due to A. vera leaf extract was 14.19% and 17.5%, respectively.
The potential hemotoxic effect of the commonly utilized antibiotic metronidazole (MTZ) was investigated in the common carp (Cyprinus carpio). The fish were exposed to sublethal concentrations of MTZ, 5 mg/L and 10 mg/L in water for duration of 96 hours along with one control group. No macroscopic pathology or death of fish was observed at these concentrations. Various hematological parameters were evaluated, including Hemoglobin (Hb), Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Red blood cell (RBC), White blood cell (WBC), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC). Under the tested concentrations, MTZ- exposed fish at 5 mg/L dosage exhibited a gradual increase in Hb and RBC values, while a decrease in values of WBC, PCV, MCV, MCH and MCHC from control to 96 hours was observed. However, the fish exposed at 10mg/L dosage exhibited a gradual increase in RBC, MCHC values, while a variation in values in Hb, WBC, PCV, MCV and MCHC from control to 96 hours was seen. Moreover, hematological parameters have the potential to act as appropriate biomarkers for assessing fish health and can be utilized as bio-indicators in environmental bio-monitoring.
Records pertaining to 1200 nos. of Japanese Quails reared at farmers’ household under On Farm Trials (OFTs) programme of KVK, Baksa, Nalbari and Dhemaji of Assam Agricultural University for 3 years were utilized to carry out the study. A total of 24 nos. of farmers were selected and each farmer was given 50 nos. of quail chicks to rear under the OFT programme. The mean body weights (g) at day old, 1st week, 2nd week, 3rd week, 4th week, 5th week, 6th week, 7th week, 8th week, 9th week and 10th week were 8.653±0.070, 25.778 ± 0.219, 64.472±0.415, 113.007 ± 0.566, 177.113 ± 0.995, 220.985 ± 1.197, 247.775 ± 1.325, 261.062 ± 1.284, 282.155 ± 1.948, 310.970 ± 1.966 and 318.741 ± 1.987, respectively. The average daily body weight gain (g) during day old to 10th week of age was 4.425± 0.027. The average age at first egg was 43.909 ± 0.211 days. The average egg weight was 13.667 ± 0.110 g. The average mortality percentage from day old to 6th week of period was found to be 4.685 ± 0.475. The average feed conversion ratio (FCR) from day old to 6th week of period was found to be 2.54. The average hen day egg production and hen housed egg production during 6th week to 16th week were 58.798±1.212 and 43.278±0.755, respectively. The benefit cost ratios (B:C ratio) for meat production for the period of 42 days and egg production for a period of 1.5 years were 1.72 and 1.35, respectively.
Records pertaining to 600 nos. of Broad Breasted Bronze (Meleagris gallopavo) and Broad Breasted White variety of Turkey reared at farmers’ house under On Farm Trial (OFT) programme of KVK, Baksa; KVK, Nalbari and KVK, Dhemaji for 3 years were utilized to carry out the present study. Each of the sixty nos. of farmers reared 10 nos. of turkey birds under the OFT programme. The mean body weights (g) at 7th days, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th month of age were 118.65±0.72, 325.78±0.22, 1064.47±0.49, 2113.76±0.66, 3577.93±2.95, 4920.85±3.11, 6847.56±4.13 and 9161.74±5.88, respectively. The average daily weight gain (g) during the period of 7th days to 7th month of age was 43.69±0.43. The average age at first egg was 213.99±3.02 days and average egg weight was found to be 71.36±0.71 g. The average annual egg production of Turkey birds was 98.25±0.54 nos. and average hatchability percentage in natural hatching was 62.80±0.72. The average dressing percentage was 68.85±0.75 and the average feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the period of 7th days to 7th month was 1.30±0.06. The average benefit cost ratio (B:C Ratio) of turkey birds reared for meat production was 3.35±0.03, thus it indicated rearing of turkey birds is a profitable venture.
Several pharmacological agents have been employed to manage different pathological pain conditions, including NSAIDs, opiates, and others. However, adverse effects could restrict dosing and therapeutic effectiveness. In this review, we discuss nutraceuticals and various bioactive compounds, such as vitamins, carotenoids like lycopene and beta-carotene, and specific compounds like astaxanthin and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), focusing on their roles in managing oxidative stress, inflammation, and pain. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), an endocannabinoid-like compound, is notable for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective actions, making it a promising therapeutic agent. The efficacy of PEA, especially in combination with natural antioxidants like astaxanthin, offers potential benefits for improved pain relief in conditions such as osteoarthritis. Micro-PEA, with improved pharmacokinetics and bioavailability, is effectively used to manage conditions like atopic dermatitis and chronic pain. Based on available literature, PEA is currently considered among the novel nonopioid interventions for chronic pain.
This study explores the hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of wheat straw (WS), fruit peels and pulps (PP), and solid sewage sludge (SS) to produce hydrochar with enhanced fuel properties. Samples were collected, dried, ground, and sieved, then subjected to HTC at temperatures of 180°C, 220°C, and 260°C for one hour. The hydrochars were analyzed for solid yield, high heating value (HHV), energy densification, fuel ratio, and surface morphology. Results indicated a decrease in solid yield with increasing temperature of all the hydrochars. WS and PP hydrochars showing increased HHV and energy densification with temperatures increase. SEM analysis revealed significant structural changes, including increased surface macropores and roughness, enhancing combustion properties. WS-260 and PP-260 hydrochars exhibited the highest potential as biofuels due to their high HHV, energy yield, and favorable morphological characteristics. Conversely, SS-derived hydrochars showed lower HHV but increased homogeneity and particle fragmentation. The findings suggest that HTC-treated WS and PP, particularly at 260°C, can serve as sustainable and efficient solid biofuels, offering a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels and contributing to effective waste management.
One of the most difficult but essential tasks in an agricultural unit operation in aromatic and medicinal crops is weed management. Delays in weed control and negligence affect the yield. In order to reduce the excessive use of weedicides, mechanical weeding is recommended instead of chemical or biological methods which keep soil surface dry and provide better aeration and moisture conservation. The modernisation of mechanical weeding has not yet been well developed in particular for small and marginal farmers. To that end, a battery-operated weeder has been developed and tested to assess its performance. The developed weeder consisted a BLDC hub motor, motor speed controller, Lithium iron phosphate battery, flat cutting blade and weed collecting tool as well as a drive wheel. The average field capacity, field efficiency and weeding efficiency of the weeder were found as 0.033 ha/h, 78.5% and 89.5% respectively. The weeder is gender friendly and therefore has scope of adoption by small and marginal hill farmers for timely weeding operations with reduced drudgery and reduced cost of operation compared to other weeding methods.
ChatGPT is an AI tool that provides users with chat-based answers to their questions. This powerful technology offers numerous benefits across various sectors, including education. In the educational context, AI can serve as an assistant to students, aiding their learning processes. This paper examines the perception of students towards ChatGPT usage. This present research investigation was conducted on 66 Undergraduate students of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar. The results reveal a high level of student appreciation for ChatGPT's capabilities and effectiveness as a learning tool, highlighting its potential to transform educational practices and improve student engagement and productivity. The findings also suggest that while ChatGPT significantly enhances learning efficiency and student engagement, its full potential can be realized through careful integration and additional resources to support its use.
APSIM-Wheat and CERES-Wheat, which simulates yield has been calibrated for wheat using experimental data of 2017-18 crop season under Tarai region of Uttarakhand. The calibration was performed against anthesis (DAS), physiological maturity (DAS), grain and biomass yield for the three treatments of sowing dates (viz.,15th November, 25th November and 05th December), three levels of irrigation (number of irrigations five, four and three) for two wheat varieties (HD-2967 and PBW-502). The calibrated APSIM-Wheat and CERES-Wheat model were then applied validated for rabi season of 2018-19. The CERES model shows superior performance compared to the APSIM model across several metrics. For days to anthesis, CERES RMSE values range from 2.75 to 3.69, while APSIM's are 3.78 to 5.77. For physiological maturity, CERES % RMSE values are 4.82 to 5.34, and APSIM's are 5.13 to 6.35. Biological yield R values for CERES are 0.91 to 0.94, while APSIM's are 0.84 to 0.85. Grain yield RMSE values for CERES range from 2.11 to 3.16, compared to APSIM's 3.03 to 5.14, indicating that CERES predictions are closer to experimental data.
In Nigeria, there is growing interest in establishing sustainable food security, and much effort has gone into identifying an effective mechanism for coordinating the efforts of thousands of small-scale farmers to ensure food security. The goal of the study was to evaluate the effect of agricultural cooperative societies on the level of food security among cassava farmers' households in central agricultural zone of Delta State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling method was used to select 180 respondents. The information gathered was analyzed using descriptive statistics, the FGT food security index, and a binary logistic model. Only 42% of non-cooperative farming households were food secure, compared to 66% of cooperative farming households. The food insecurity incidence (0.58), depth (0.21), and severity (0.10) for the non-cooperative farmers were higher than that of the cooperative farming households (0.34, 0.11, and 0.04 respectively). Incidence of food insecurity was high among household heads within the age bracket of 41-50 years (76%) for the non-members and 51-60 years (47%) for the members. Additionally, households headed by men, as well as those with large families and low incomes, were most significantly affected by food insecurity. Furthermore, the age of the household head, household size, cooperative membership, and household income were significant determinants of food security. It is therefore concluded that cooperative societies significantly improve the food security status of their members, as the number of households with food security was higher in the case of members than the non-members. Farmers should be urged to become members of existing cooperative societies.
Agricultural practices in India are diverse and heavily influenced by the country's varying climatic conditions, soil types, and socio-economic factors. Farmers uses age-old techniques like ploughing with bullocks, manual sowing, and harvesting. Organic farming practices, such as the use of natural fertilizers (compost, manure), are prevalent in some areas while Some of them uses tractors, harvesters, and advanced machinery. Chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and high-yield variety (HYV) seeds are commonly used. India's agricultural practices are a blend of traditional wisdom and modern technology. While significant progress has been made in terms of productivity and diversification, ongoing challenges require innovative solutions and sustainable practices to ensure long-term food security and economic stability for millions of farmers. This research is purposely planned to analyse the agricultural practices performed by the farmers of Nainital district and the to identify the awareness of farmers towards the post-harvest management practices. It includes 160 farmers that are involved in growing vegetables. The results reveals that only 52.16% agricultural practices are as per the standard guidelines described by the Govt. Organization. The farmers need to be more aware about the latest agricultural practices and the agricultural programmes planned by the Govt. institution to uplift the performance of the farmers.
Overweight and obesity rates are increasing across all age groups due to factors such as dietary changes, sedentary lifestyles, urbanisation, and economic development. Skipping meals, particularly breakfast, worsens this problem by reducing nutrient intake, increasing the risk of abdominal weight gain, and contributing to insulin resistance and cardiovascular issues. In response, meal replacement products are becoming more popular as a health management strategy. This study aimed to develop wholesome meal replacers for adults that provide adequate nutrients in a well-balanced manner. Rice and ragi, along with other functional ingredients, were used in various combinations to develop a meal replacer powder. The combination containing jackfruit flour was found to be the most acceptable one organoleptically. The developed meal replacer contained 65.173g of carbohydrates, 22.88g of protein, 2.323g of fat, 4.137g of fibre and 2.39g of total ash, providing 371.92 kcal of energy per 100g. The product demonstrated high shelf stability for more than six months. Nutritious meal replacers made from locally available ingredients can be promoted as a healthy and convenient alternative to maintain a balanced diet for adults amidst busy lifestyles.
