Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) play a pivotal role in tumor progression, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. The β -catenin, a key effector of the Wnt signaling pathway, is critically involved in maintaining the self-renewal and pluripotency of BCSCs, making it an attractive molecular target for cancer therapy. Contemporary medicines utilized for targeting breast cancer have not been effective because of poor prognosis and relapse of the disease with many side effects. Natural compounds like curcumin have shown promising anticancer properties with minimal side effects, but limitations in bioavailability and efficacy have prompted the development of suitably designed curcumin conjugates. This study explores the potential of curcumin conjugates as β -catenin inhibitors through a computational approach. A series of ligand molecules, including curcumin, cinnamic acid and its conjugates along with a known binder of β -catenin (R9Q), were subjected to molecular docking against the β -catenin protein structure. Structural parameters of the protein and ligand interactions were analyzed to evaluate their potential to modulate catenin activity. The study aims to explore structurally designed conjugates with the potential to modulate β -catenin signaling in breast cancer stem cells, laying the groundwork for future therapeutic strategies. The findings from in-silico study underscore the need for further in vitro and in vivo investigations to validate the efficacy and biological relevance of the designed conjugates as promising therapeutic agents against breast cancer stem cells.
Plants associated with endophytes are imbibed with beneficial growth promoting and biocontrol activity against phytopathogens are sustainable alternative to the synthetic fungicides. In the study, bacterial endophytes isolated from Brassica spp. were screened for antagonistic activity against Alternaria brassicicola, causing black spot disease in mustard. Bacterial isolate exhibiting 58.14 % mycelial inhibition rate was selected and identified based on 16S rRNA gene sequences as Bacillus subtilis strain and examined for further preliminary in vitro assays showing direct antagonism and inhibition of the pathogen. Microscopic studies showed irregularities in mycelium growth, aberrations in the spores’ structure and cell integrity after interacting with bacterial cells. In the buried slide experiment, the antagonistic isolate was in physical contact with the pathogen. The results showed stunted spores, uneven germination, plasmolysis of cellular components, and distorted hyphae, restricting the proliferation of the mycelial network over a 72-hour period in inoculated soil. The potential of bacterial cells as a foliar treatment to control black spot was evaluated through a detached leaf assay every 24 h for 3 days. A significant control of necrosis progression was observed in the bacterial cell inoculated leaf with respect to control. In the control, black-brown necrotic lesions encircled by a distinct yellow halo were observed after 24 hrs, and after 72 hpi, lesions of size 13 mm with extensive chlorotic regions were observed whereas in treatment, no lesions developed after 48 h and the lesion was 1.7mm after 72 hpi. The results indicate that, with optimised augmented inoculation, bacterial cells could be employed in disease management as soil and foliar treatments in further in vivo experiments.
Altitude plays an important role in shaping plant’s physiological and biochemical behavior. This ultimately helps the plant in acclimatization and adaptation in varying habitats spread across different altitudinal gradients. The current work focuses to study the biochemical and physiological profile of D. pedicellatus across varying elevations (700, 1186, 1370 and 1640 m). Total polyphenolic content including phenols, flavonoids and tannins were quantitatively estimated using standard protocols. Proteins, photosynthetic pigments and macronutrients were evaluated using standard available protocols with mild modifications. Data was statistically analyzed and means were compared for significance at p< 0.05. Results revealed statistically significant variation in all the studied parameters except for phosphorous content. Total phenol (23.26 %), tannin (63.75 %) and protein (175.7 %) content increased effectively whereas total flavonoids decreased (84.84 %) with rise in elevation. Photosynthetic pigments like chlorophyll a, b and carotenoids also followed the decreasing trend by 36.46 %, 39.98 % and 36.24 % respectively, with increasing altitude. Macronutrients like nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus also declined by 55.43 %, 57.67 % and 20.71 % respectively. The decline in photosynthetic pigments and macronutrient content highlights the decrease in photosynthetic and mineral uptake capacity of D. pedicellatus at higher altitudes. The study suggests that A4 populations (growing at 1640 m) are richer in polyphenolic compounds and hence more suitable for medicinal purposes. Hence, for bringing the plant in cultivation, A4 populations may be selected as elite planting material in order to get optimum yield of medicinally important compounds.
A trial was conducted at Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (Uttarakhand) to study the impact of integrated nutrient management on growth, yield, quality and soil fertility status in sugarcane-ratoon system, Integrated nutrient management practices involving combinations of inorganics (NPK) + organic sources (FYM, biofertilizers, trash incorporation) were tested along with inorganic fertilizer alone. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with ten treatments in three replications. Significantly higher cane yield (78.8 and 74.5 t ha-1) was recorded in T6-FYM/Compost @ 20 t ha-1 +soil test based recommendation over rest of the treatments except T5 FYM/Compost @ 20 t ha-1 + 100% RDF and T10- RDF+ S+ Zn in both plant and ratoon crops, respectively. The cane yield in T6 was increased by 15.4% in planted cane and 13.7 % in ratoon crop against the treatment in which NPK was applied alone in both the crops. Similarly, CCS yield and sucrose % was also statistically at par in these treatments. Organic carbon %, available N, P and K was significantly higher in T6 and T5 over rest of the treatments in plant and ratoon crops.
The study aimed to evaluate soil fertility in Muzaffarnagar district by analyzing physico-chemical properties and nutrient contents across different blocks. Soil samples were collected from representative villages in nine blocks and assessed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon, and the availability of macro- nutrients (N, P, K & S) and micro-nutrients (Zn, B, Cu, Fe & Mn). Standard analytical techniques were used for laboratory evaluation. Results revealed that soil pH ranged from 7.00 to 8.36, with a district average of 7.94, indicating neutral to slightly alkaline soils. EC values were generally low (0.15–0.91 dS/m), reflecting minimal salinity concerns. Organic carbon content ranged between 1.50 and 5.80 g/kg, suggesting moderate fertility levels. Macro-nutrient analysis showed nitrogen levels varying significantly (33.7–511.5 kg/ha), with phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur also displaying wide ranges, pointing to variability in soil nutrient management. Micro-nutrient availability was block-dependent, with deficiencies in zinc and boron in several areas, while iron and manganese levels were generally adequate. The study concluded that Muzaffarnagar district soils are moderately fertile but show spatial variability in nutrient availability. Balanced fertilizer applications tailored to block-specific deficiencies are recommended to improve soil health and productivity. This baseline assessment can guide sustainable soil and crop management practices in the region.
The cropping pattern plays an important role in ascertaining the extent of agricultural production and give consideration to agricultural economy of an area. Cropping pattern of any area is generally controlled by physical, socio economic and technological factors. The present study was conducted to know the changes in the cropping pattern of northern dry zone of Karnataka which includes Bagalkote, Bellari, Vijayapura, Dharwad, Gadag, part of Kalburgi and Koppal districts. The major cereal crops of these districts are Paddy, Sorghum, Finger millet, Maize and Pearl millet. Crop sown area data were collected from Agriculture Office, Government of Karnataka (Head Office, Bangalore) for the period of 2011 – 12 to 2022 – 23. Temporal changes in cropping system have been studied for selected cereal crops. The study revealed that there was negative as well as positive change in cropping pattern of the crops over the selected period of time.
As climate change continues to cause havoc worldwide, it is important to study the local meteorological parameters to understand their impact. The summer and early monsoon season ranging between 10-23 standard meteorological weeks (SMWs) is very important for the kharif crops in the Tarai region. The current study was performed on the maximum-minimum temperatures, morning and evening relative humidity, rainfall and rainy days patterns in Pantnagar, Uttarakhand. A simple trend analysis was done for a time period from 2010-2024. The results showed a decreasing trend in evaporation since 2019-2024 at a rate of 1.7 mm/year. The early monsoon season during previous years observed moderate to heavy rainfall patterns, but due to daily temperature variations the rainfall has become extremely irregular in recent years (2019-2024). Continuous dryness, high temperatures and El Nino impact caused very low rainfall of 2.4 mm during 2024 which was extremely lower than the previous years as well as the normal rainfall of the region. Though the rainfall pattern indicates an increase in rainfall over the years during 2020, 2021 and 2023 but with decreased rainy days leading to heavy downpours in a very short period of time. All these steep variations in recent years during summer and early monsoon season have created difficult situations, particularly for the spring and kharif crops of the Tarai region thus, such local study could help to understand the weather patterns and its impact so that weather preparations could be made well in advance.
The experiment was conducted in mango cv. Dashehari planted in medium density at the Horticulture Research Centre, Pattharchatta, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, during 2023-24. The objective of the study was to assess the effect of different nutrient doses on mango flowering traits. The experiment was laid out in RBD (Randomized Block Design) with 10 treatments consisting of 3 replications. Our study revealed that the earliest panicle emergence (1st February to 8th February), higher flowering duration (25.83 days), flowering intensity (51.22 %), panicle length (32.68 cm), number of hermaphrodite flowers (395.41), wider panicle width (14.54 cm), and lowest sex ratio (0.82) were observed in T8 (75% RDF /tree/year basin application after harvest + two foliar sprays of 0.50 % Ferric sulfate + 0.50 % Calcium chloride + 0.50% Zinc sulfate + 0.10% Boric acid just before flowering and marble stage. Therefore, T8 may be recommended in mango cv. Dashehari under medium-density planting for higher panicle, flowering and sex characteristics, which ultimately improve fruit yield
Star fruit (Averrhoa carambola L.), commonly known as the Golden Star, is a tropical fruit from the Oxalidaceae family, distinguished by its star-shaped cross-section and unique sweet-sour flavor. Traditionally used in Indian medicine as a cooling agent, it is valued for its nutritional and therapeutic benefits. However, no comprehensive studies were made in this fruit. Therefore, the nutritional composition, anti nutritional factors, and antioxidant potential of ripe star fruit was evaluated. The fruit showed a high moisture content (92.52%) and moderate acidity (0.32%), consistent with its juicy texture and tart taste. Proximate analysis revealed low levels of fat (0.28 g/100 g) and protein (0.56 g/100 g), along with moderate amounts of carbohydrates (6.49 g/100 g) and dietary fiber (3.25 g/100 g), indicating its suitability for low-calorie, fiber-rich diets. Mineral profiling identified potassium (119 mg/100 g) as the most abundant element, followed by phosphorus, calcium, sodium, and iron. Antinutritional factors were found in minimal concentrations, with oxalates at 7.53 mg/100 g, within acceptable limits for tropical fruits. Tannins (0.16 mg/100 g) and phytates (0.04 mg/100 g) were present in trace amounts, unlikely to affect nutrient bioavailability. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, superoxide, and nitric oxide scavenging assays with IC50 values of 636 μg /mL, 662 μg /mL, 298 μg /mL, and 78 μg /mL, respectively. The findings highlight that star fruit is a nutritious and functional fruit with promising applications in health-conscious diets, and it can be used to develop nutraceutical and functional food products.
Mung bean (Vigna radiata), commonly called green gram, is a nutrient-rich legume from the Fabaceae family, widely consumed for its health benefits and versatility in savoury and sweet dishes. It is a valuable source of plant-based protein, dietary fibre, essential vitamins, and minerals, making it an integral part of balanced diets globally. Corn (Zea mays), a gluten free cereal staple, is equally celebrated for its high content of carbohydrates, protein, and essential micronutrients such as magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin B complexes. Despite their inherent nutritive properties, mung bean and corn exhibit anti-nutritional factors such as phytates and tannins that can reduce nutrient absorption and bioavailability. Enhancing these grains’ nutritional profiles while addressing these limitations is crucial for their effective incorporation into health-focused diets. This study utilized germination and lactic acid fermentation as innovative processing techniques to improve the digestibility and bioavailability of nutrients in mung bean and corn. These processes have been shown to reduce anti-nutritional compounds, enrich grains with beneficial bioactive compounds, and enhance their overall nutritional quality. Nine composite flours were developed by blending different ratios of germinated and fermented flours of mung bean and corn. The physico-chemical properties, such as moisture content, nutrient composition, and texture, were analyzed alongside anti-nutritional factors to evaluate the suitability of these flours. The findings underline the significant potential of predigested flours for creating value-added recipes that cater to modern dietary needs, including high-protein, high-fiber, and gluten-free food products. These flours could be pivotal in addressing nutritional deficiencies, improving gut health, and developing functional foods to support better health outcomes.
Coconut is a versatile and widely cultivated crop in tropical regions like Kerala and plays a vital role in the agrarian economy and local diets. Coconut milk, extracted from mature coconut kernels, is rich in healthy fats and micronutrients, making it an ideal base for plant-based food innovations. With the rising demand for dairy-free alternatives, coconut milk has gained prominence in developing lactose-free fermented products. Yoghurt prepared from coconut milk offers a nutritious, vegan-friendly option. This study aimed to standardize coconut milk-based yoghurt and evaluate its quality as a potential dairy alternative. Coconut milk was extracted, pasteurized, and blended with homogenized cow milk in varying proportions (T0-T10). The formulation with 60% coconut milk (T6) received the highest sensory evaluation score (8.36) based on a nine-point hedonic scale. Physicochemical analysis of T6 showed moisture (72.80%), acidity (0.38%), pH (4.71), water holding capacity (48.21%), syneresis (2%), viscosity (3800cP), curd tension (38.50), peroxide value (0.80 milleq. /kg), TSS (15.5 ° (Bx)), total sugars (8.5%), reducing sugars (3.9%), carbohydrate (4.50g/100g), protein (2.28g/100g), fat (12.10%) and energy (142.90Kcal) which revealed favorable nutritional and functional properties, indicating significant potential for commercial-scale production of coconut milk yoghurt
Coconut is a versatile and widely cultivated crop in tropical regions like Kerala and plays a vital role in the agrarian economy and local diets. Coconut milk, extracted from mature coconut kernels, is rich in healthy fats and micronutrients, making it an ideal base for plant-based food innovations. With the rising demand for dairy-free alternatives, coconut milk has gained prominence in developing lactose-free fermented products. Yoghurt prepared from coconut milk offers a nutritious, vegan-friendly option. This study aimed to standardize coconut milk-based yoghurt and evaluate its quality as a potential dairy alternative. Coconut milk was extracted, pasteurized, and blended with homogenized cow milk in varying proportions (T0-T10). The formulation with 60% coconut milk (T6) received the highest sensory evaluation score (8.36) based on a nine-point hedonic scale. Physicochemical analysis of T6 showed moisture (72.80%), acidity (0.38%), pH (4.71), water holding capacity (48.21%), syneresis (2%), viscosity (3800cP), curd tension (38.50), peroxide value (0.80 milleq. /kg), TSS (15.5 ° (Bx)), total sugars (8.5%), reducing sugars (3.9%), carbohydrate (4.50g/100g), protein (2.28g/100g), fat (12.10%) and energy (142.90Kcal) which revealed favorable nutritional and functional properties, indicating significant potential for commercial-scale production of coconut milk yoghurt.
The present investigation was conducted to demonstrate the performance and morphometric traits of native male and female kids of “Chaugarkha” kept under the traditional system of goat production employing grazing on natural rangelands and supplementation of home produce energy feeds. Sixteen newly born goat kids with an average live weight of 2.50±0.041 kg and 2-5 days of age were divided into two equal groups of eight in each group, male kids are grouped as G1 and female G2, and maintained for 180 days. The kids were allowed to suckle milk from the respective mother goat twice daily up to weaning and offered locally available tree leaves and grass after 15 days of birth to lean the feeding. The kids, after 30 days of age, were allowed grazing for 7 to 8 hrs daily on natural rangelands supplemented with kitchen waste as and when available with local grains approx. 50 to 100g per day. The kids were maintained in groups under the shed and clean drinking water was available ad libitum during housing and grazing. The initial live weights (birth weight) of kids were similar (P<0.05) between the two kid groups, which ranged from 2.50 to 2.56 kg with mean weight of 2.52 kg, whereas live weights at the termination of the experiment were different (P<0.01) between the two kid groups, which varied from 11.79 to 15.98 kg with mean live weight of 13.89 kg. The kids of G1 group were the heaviest than G 2. Live weight gain during the 180 days of the experiment was 13.48 kg in G1 and 9.23 kg in G2, which were significantly (P<0.001) different between the two kid groups. The phenotypic traits viz., height at wither, body length, punch girth, face length, tail and horn length were significantly (P<0.005) different between the two kid groups, which were higher in G1 kids. Similarly, the kids of the G1 groups had a higher gain of height at wither, body length, punch girth, face length, tail and horn length on a monthly basis. At the age of 180 days, the mean kids’ height at wither was 51.1 cm, body length 54.06 cm, punch girth 57.16 cm, face length 17.73 cm, tail length 12.14 cm and horn length 4.57 cm. The present study concluded that goat kids raised traditionally employing grazing on natural rangelands with home-available grain supplementsattained appropriate live weight with an average daily gain (ADG) of 60g/ day. The male kids had higher live weights and morphometric trait gains than the female kids. The morphometric traits of the goat kids may be useful for characterising this lesser-known goat breeds of the country.
The study was conducted to isolate bacterial microflora from tracheo-bronchial aspirates (TBA) of healthy and pneumonic crossbred adult cattle. A total of fifty cross bred adult cattle diagnosed for pneumonia were selected. Ten apparently healthy cattle were included as healthy control animals. TBA samples were collected aseptically by percutaneous method. TBA sediment was inoculated on Blood agar and MacConkey’s lactose agar. Bacterial isolates were identified and characterized on the basis of cultural examination and biochemical tests. TBA from six healthy animals and 44 pneumonic cattle were positive for bacterial growth. Out of 85 isolates obtained from pneumonic cows, Staphylococcus spp. other than S. aureus (25.9 %) were the most prevalent followed by Pasturella multocida (12.9 %), Bacillus spp. (11.8 %), Pseudomonas spp. (10.6 %), Staphylococcus aureus (10.6 %), E. coli (9.4 %), Klebsiella spp. (8.2 %), Proteus spp. (7.1 %) and Streptococcus spp. (3.5%)
This report describes a case of notoedric mange in two cats in a single household and successful management with ivermectin therapy. A six-month-old tom cat was presented to Small Animal Clinics, Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex (TVCC), Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana with a primary complaint of severe itching and alopecic lesions on the face and ears for the past 10 days. Owner also had intense pruritus over the hands and small erythematic crusted papules on the wrists and arms. Upon physical examination, crust formation was observed along with hyperkeratosis and alopecia distributed over ear margins, face, and legs. The cat exhibited intense pruritus. All vital parameters were within normal limits. Laboratory examination of skin scrapings from the lesions showed the presence of adult mites of Notoedres cati. Thus, the cat was diagnosed with Notoedric Mange. The affected cat was treated with Inj. Ivermectin @ 200 μg/kg SC once a week for three weeks along with oral prednisolone @ 0.5 mg/kg OD for 3 days, then alternate days for 3 times, and oral administration of 2 ml of multi-vitamin and mineral syrup daily. Significant improvement was noticed by complete clinical recovery in two weeks along with the absence of mites in skin scrapings after 14 days post treatment.
The goal of the current study was to determine how a mineral mixture specifically designed for fish affected their growth, nutritional makeup, and overall health of Cyprinus carpio. The experiment consists of five treatments (T1-T5, in triplicate); the basal diet used for all the treatments consisted of rice bran (49-50%), mustard oil (48.5-49%), mineral mixture (0 2%) and salt (0.5%); the positive control with commercially available mineral mixture (T1) and the negative control without any mineral mixture (T2) and three (T3-T5) treatments supplemented with formulated mineral mixture (as per ICAR, 2013 recommendations) at three inclusion levels of 1%, 1.5% and 2%, respectively. All the major water quality parameters were within the acceptable limits. When compared to the non-supplemented group (T2), the growth performance of C. carpio fingerlings, including final weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate, has been significantly (P<0.05) improved by the developed mineral supplementation. Additionally, the T4 group’s feed conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio were shown to be much improved (p<0.05). Moreover, the total protein and fat content of the flesh were significantly (p<0.05) boosted by the mineral mixture. Haemoglobin, haematocrit, total erythrocyte count, total leucocyte count, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, and mean cell haemoglobin concentration were considered as responsible parameters for haematological study and were also significantly (P<0.05) improved and best recorded at 1.5% (T4) mineral mixture compared to the non-supplemented group. The information gathered for this study will help a number of stakeholders, including fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and the feed sector, increase fish production and productivity in a sustainable manner.
This study investigated the impact of Deep Cryogenic Treatment (DCT) on the microstructural and electrical properties of a recycled aluminium alloy, aiming to enhance its performance. Samples were subjected to DCT at temperatures below -196°C, and their properties were compared to those of the untreated samples. Microstructural analysis using optical microscopy revealed a significant reduction in the size and density of the inclusions and defects after DCT, indicating a more refined and homogeneous microstructure. Electrical resistivity measurements demonstrated a substantial decrease in both resistance and resistivity following DCT, suggesting improved electrical conductivity. These enhancements are attributed to the phase redistribution, impurity dissolution, stress relaxation, and reduced dislocation density induced by the cryogenic treatment. These findings highlight the potential of DCT to effectively optimise the microstructural and electrical properties of aluminium alloys derived from scrap materials, making them suitable for applications requiring enhanced conductivity and mechanical performance. This research suggests that DCT is a viable approach for improving the quality and applicability of recycled aluminium alloys
This research paper assesses the perceived benefits of the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) project implemented in Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand, focusing on empowering tribal women through a series of five skill-based training programs conducted between January and March 2025. A total of 250 tribal women from blocks Gadarpur, Sitarganj, and Khateema participated in trainings on mushroom cultivation, food processing, and value-added products from sugarcane and millets. The study utilized structured questionnaires and interviews to evaluate economic, social, and behavioral changes post-training. Findings revealed that 38.8% of mushroom training participants and 38.0% of those trained in millet-based products reported increased income, while 19.6% of fruit and vegetable processing trainees also saw economic gains. Social indicators showed that 80% of participants experienced increased external contacts, 76% developed better relations with officials, and 74% reported enhanced social recognition. On the behavioral front, 90% gained awareness of tribal welfare schemes, 84% acquired new skills, and 80% developed an entrepreneurial mindset. The study concludes that the TSP training programs substantially contributed to income generation, self-employment, social upliftment, and behavioral transformation among tribal women, with implications for sustainable rural development through continued support and market linkages.
The livelihood diversification has emerged as a key strategy for enhancing the resilience and economic stability of rural households particularly in hill regions like Nainital district of Uttarakhand. This study therefore aims to assess the attitudes of farmers towards livelihood diversification and identify the key factors influencing their decision to diversify. This investigation focuses on farmers residing in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, specifically their attitudes towards the diversification of livelihoods. To gather relevant data, a sample of (191) farmers were subjected to both structured and semi-structured interview methodologies. The study findings exhibit positive attitudes towards livelihood diversification. Key economic variables, such as insufficient financial resources and the necessity to alleviate risks associated with climate change, emerged as significant motivators for this shift. Furthermore, social and cultural factors such as familial support and the observed success of peers, were identified as influential elements driving the diversification process. Conversely, the study identified institutional obstacles that impede progress, namely limited access to credit and the inadequacy of government initiatives aimed at supporting diversification. Additionally, personal attributes, such as an entrepreneurial mindset and the willingness to undertake risks, play a critical role in shaping the decisions made by farmers. The insights from this research can be helpful to guide policymakers and agricultural extension agencies in formulating appropriate and relevant strategies to strengthen rural livelihoods and enhance farmers adaptive capacity and develop entrepreneurial competencies to facilitate the diversification in the face of economic and environmental uncertainties
