Horizon e-Publishing Group (HePG): E-Journals
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Enhancing breeding potential in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern & Coss): variability and association studies in Three F2 populations
Get PDFThis research was conducted to investigate the genetic variability, heritability and relationships among traits in F2 populations of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern & Coss) to identify practical breeding approaches for improving yield. Considerable variation was noted in traits associated with growth, yield and its components, highlighting the genetic diversity in the studied populations. Key characteristics such as the number of primary and secondary branches per plant, siliqua per raceme, racemes per plant and seed yield per plant exhibited high phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation (PCV and GCV), suggesting significant genetic variability. Traits with high heritability and genetic advance, including primary and secondary branches per plant, racemes per plant, siliqua per raceme and seed yield per plant, indicate a strong influence of additive genetic variance, making them ideal for direct selection. Through correlation and path analysis, key traits such as primary and secondary branches per plant, siliqua per raceme, number of racemes per plant and 1000-seed weight were identified as crucial for enhancing yield. The F2 population from the cross TM-138-1 × KMR(E) 16-1 demonstrated superior breeding potential, as evidenced by higher mean values, broader absolute and standardized ranges, increased phenotypic coefficient of variation and a higher frequency of transgressive segregants compared to other crosses. These results offer valuable insights for breeders seeking to improve productivity and adaptability in oilseed crops
Biochemical basis of chemically induced disease resistance against sugary disease of sorghum caused by Sphacelia sorghi
No full textSorghum, a multipurpose food crop and one of the top five grain crops globally, is threatened by sugary disease (ergot), which causes significant yield losses in hybrid seed production. This study aimed to investigate the biochemical basis of disease resistance in sorghum induced by various chemical compounds against sugary disease caused by Sphacelia sorghi. The research evaluated the effects of chitosan, salicylic acid, acibenzolar-s-methyl, beta-aminobutyric acid, ethylene, jasmonic acid, benzoic acid, indole-3-butyric acid, benzothiadiazole and zinc oxide on the activity of phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) at different concentrations and across various time intervals (3, 6 and 9 days) following post-pathogen inoculation. All treatments significantly increased PAL and PPO activities compared to the control. Chitosan at 1000 ppm (part per million) exhibited the highest PAL activity, while salicylic acid at 1000 ppm recorded the highest PPO activity. The lowest PAL and PPO activities were observed in the control group inoculated with the pathogen alone. The enhanced activity of PAL and PPO in treated plants suggests a strong defensive response in sorghum against S. sorghi. Based on their ability to significantly enhance PAL and PPO activities, the use of disease-tolerant genotypes in combination with prophylactic sprays of chitosan or salicylic acid at 1000 ppm is recommended as a cost-effective strategy for managing sugary disease (ergot) in sorghum
Inhibitory effect of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. flower extract on α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities
Get PDFHibiscus rosa-sinensis flowers had traditionally been used in folk medicine to manage diabetes; however, the mechanisms underlying their glucose-lowering effects remained unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate phytochemical properties and in vitro inhibitory activity of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flower extracts on starch-hydrolyzing enzymes. Ethanol (70 %) and aqueous extracts (EE and AE respectively) were prepared using an ultrasound-assisted extraction method. The phytochemical properties of the extracts were determined by colorimetric reactions. The antidiabetic activity of these extracts was examined via α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory assays. The extracts were found to contain bioactive phytochemicals, including flavonoids, mucilage, tannins and reducing compounds. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of aqueous and ethanol 70 % extracts on α-glucosidase activity was observed at IC50 values of 1.40 ± 0.02 mg/mL and 0.92 ± 0.02 mg/mL, respectively. On the other hand, α-amylase activity was also inhibited by aqueous extract and ethanol 70 % extract at IC50 values of 1.39 ± 0.09 mg/mL and 0.95 ± 0.06 mg/mL, respectively. These findings suggested that the inhibitory activity of H. rosa-sinensis flower extracts on α-glucosidase and α-amylase might have contributed to the reduction of blood glucose levels, indicating potential for diabetes management
Impact assessment of IFSU- CHS Extension program: advancing sustainable livelihoods, health and cultural preservation in Barangay Nayon, Ifugao
Get PDFThe Community Extension and Development Program (CEDP) of Ifugao State University (IFSU), specifically the College of Health Sciences (CHS), aims to improve the socio-economic, health and environmental conditions of its target communities, including Barangay Nayon, Lamut, Ifugao. Foremost, findings reveal that the commercialization of a locally produced herbal product - Lagundi herbal candy - has been instrumental in enhancing community income, health awareness and environmental engagement. This study tested the hypothesis that integrated community development programs combining technology transfer, health education and livelihood support can generate multidimensional benefits regardless of geographic or cultural context. This study employed a descriptive-explanatory research design, using quantitative methods to assess the impact of the CEDP on the community. Data were collected from 20 respondents through surveys and interviews. Using frequency distribution and linear regression analysis, the study analyzed socio-demographic characteristics, organizational involvement, capacity-building outcomes, technology adoption and the program\u27s economic, social and environmental impacts. Economically, the commercialization of Lagundi herbal candy contributed to income generation and entrepreneurial initiatives; however, improvements are needed in business sustainability and market expansion challenges remain in ensuring long-term business sustainability and market access. Socially, the program enhanced community health awareness, promoted herbal medicine knowledge and empowered local women and youth. Environmentally, it promoted sustainable practices and environmental conservation. Technology adoption was perceived as effective, though there is potential for improvement in modern extraction methods to ensure product quality consistency. While the program demonstrated measurable benefits across all domains, strategic efforts to modernize production technologies and scale market penetration are recommended. This case provides a replicable model for global community development stakeholders. The international community may draw transferable insights from integrating culturally grounded health interventions, sustainable enterprise development and local resource utilization as a pathway to holistic well-being
Role of endosymbionts in sap feeding insects and their potential in pest management strategies
Get PDFEndosymbionts are microorganisms living within another organism and are closely associated with their biological functions. Sucking insects viz., aphids, whiteflies, leafhoppers, planthoppers and mealybugs, are major sap-feeding insects that cause considerable damage to crop plants. These homopteran insects have a strong relationship with facultative and obligate bacterial endosymbionts. Through symbiotic adaptations, insects can exploit plant resources and escape from the plant defenses. Endosymbionts play a critical role in physiological adaptation and ecological interactions, greatly affecting host fitness, detoxification processes and interactions with their natural enemies. For example, the endosymbiont Buchnera aphidicola helps the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum, neutralize hydroxamic acids like DIMBOA derived from plants. It also aids in detoxification processes and improves amino acids metabolism. Beyond detoxification, they also reduce plant defense mechanisms by interfering with communication pathways, triggering susceptibility genes in plants and altering the distribution of nutrients inside host plants. Endosymbionts influence the coevolutionary dynamics between plants and insects as well as the developmental paths of insect host plant ranges, allowing insects to quickly adapt to new plant defenses through the acquisition or change of their symbiont communities. This complex tri-trophic interaction between homopterans, plants and endosymbionts drives the evolution of plant defense and host-plant interaction. The manipulation of these endosymbionts contributes to the development of biological control methods. These modern approaches provide alternatives to established chemical interventions, thus achieving more sustainable and environmentally consistent pest management strategies
Advancements in the realm of calcium nanoparticles: An in-depth exploration of synthesis, characterization and multifaceted applications in agriculture
No full textAn extensive overview of nano calcium is given in this article, with particular attention paid to its synthesis methods, characterization techniques and agricultural applications. It highlights the unique properties of nano calcium and its potential as a promising nanomaterial in agriculture. The synthesis section discusses various methods to produce nano calcium, including sol-gel, precipitation, hydrothermal synthesis and green synthesis approaches and it highlights the nuances involved in tailoring nano calcium particles for agricultural purposes. The article also emphasizes the significance of characterization techniques in understanding the physicochemical attributes of nano calcium by using tools such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). It explores the agricultural applications of nano calcium, particularly its role in enhancing nutrient uptake, soil fertility and crop yield. The impact of nano calcium on plant growth, stress tolerance and disease resistance is discussed, offering a comprehensive perspective on its potential benefits for sustainable agriculture. The article also highlights how nano calcium can be an eco-friendly alternative by reducing dependence on traditional fertilizers and minimizing environmental harm. In conclusion, it combines existing research on nano calcium synthesis, emphasizing its potential to transform modern agriculture and support global food security
Morphological and fruit variability of grape (Vitis vinifera L.) germplasm under sub-tropical condition
Get PDFThe research was carried out at ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes in Manjri, Pune, focusing on 24 grape germplasms. These germplasms were assessed for morphological and qualitative traits. During October 2023 to March 2024, data on vegetative growth, bunch characteristics, yield and quality were collected in line with Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS) guidelines and descriptors from International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI), International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) and International organization of Vine and Wine (OIV 2007). The mean and standard deviation (SD) were computed for all morphological traits and coefficients of variation (CV %) were used to indicate variability levels. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was performed using SPSS statistical software to identify correlations between qualitative traits. The findings revealed significant variability among the grape germplasms for various morphological traits. The time of bud burst showed considerable variation, with most germplasms exhibiting medium days to bud burst. Shoot tip opening and young leaf color also demonstrated diverse forms, indicating the genetic diversity within the germplasms. Most varieties displayed an erect growth habit, which is advantageous for vineyard management. Mature leaf characteristics, such as width and shape, provided crucial identification markers. The study noted a predominance of pentagonal leaf shapes and observed anthocyanin coloration on the main vein in a subset of varieties. Additionally, variations in leaf hair density and petiole sinus opening were important discriminative features. Bunch characteristics such as density, shape and uniformity of berry size were recorded, with medium density and conical bunch shapes being the most common. Berry shape and color varied significantly, with short elliptical and green-yellow berries being prevalent. The absence of anthocyanin coloration in the berry mesocarp was noted in all germplasms, which is relevant for table grape quality. This variability underscores the genetic diversity present in the grape germplasm, which is essential for breeding and conservation efforts. Overall study demonstrated the effectiveness of morphological characterization in assessing genetic diversity and identifying distinct grapevine genotypes
Efficiency analysis of drone-assisted pesticide application in paddy cultivation
Get PDFThis study evaluates the efficiency of drone-assisted pesticide application in paddy cultivation, focusing on time and water use efficiency compared to traditional manual spraying methods. The field trials, conducted in Needamangalam, Tamil Nadu, utilized the Tejas 10.1 drone for pesticide application over a 9 ac area. Findings revealed that drone spraying significantly outperforms manual knapsack sprayers in both efficiency and resource conservation. The drone covered 9 ac in just 1.2 hrs compared to 34.3 hrs required for manual spraying, demonstrating a 28.6-fold increase in time efficiency. Water consumption was reduced to one third with drone application requires only 72 L versus 240 L for manual spraying. Additionally, drone spraying minimized pesticide wastage through precise targeting, ensuring uniform coverage and reducing environmental impact. Drone application reduced the labour requirement to one sixth- this highlights the technology’s potential to address labour shortage. However, widespread adoption faces challenges, including high initial investment costs, technical expertise requirements and regulatory restrictions. To promote accessibility, policy support, financial incentives and targeted training programs are recommended. This study underscores the potential of drones to revolutionize pesticide application in agriculture, making it more efficient, cost-effective and sustainable. Further research should explore AI integration and regulatory frameworks to enhance large-scale adoption
Assessing the genetic diversity in large seeded confectionery groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and association among grain quality characters
Get PDFGroundnut is a principal oilseed crop cultivated in about 24 million ha worldwide mainly for oil purpose. With the arrival of other vegetable oil sources, groundnut cultivation has to be made more profitable by development and promotion of confectionary varieties which fetches better price in the local as well as international markets. The present investigation was conducted at Oilseeds Research Station, Tindivanam during 2022 using 30 bold seeded groundnut germplasm to assess the diversity existing among the germplasm for confectionary characters, association of grain quality characters with pod yield and suitability of the genotypes for improvement of confectionery characters in groundnut varieties. Significant mean performance was noticed in T 64, M522, ICGV05174, ICGV06188 for pod yield/plant, kernel weight, sound mature kernel weight/plant and sound mature kernel percentage, while T 64, TPG 41, ICGV06227, ICGV06229, ICGV06214 had significant mean performance for 100 kernel weight. The diversity analysis grouped the germplasm into eight clusters with cluster II, IV and I showing more inter cluster distance with clusters VIII and VII indicating the diverse nature of the genotypes among these clusters. Cluster Mean analysis indicated the high mean performance of genotypes in cluster IV for pod yield/plant, no. of kernels/plant and sound mature kernel/plant as compared to cluster VII with sole genotype TG 4 having high mean performance for 100 kernel weight, kernel weight per plant, sound mature kernel weight/ plant and pod yield/plant. Among the characters, 100 kernel weight (58.2 %) followed by sound mature kernel weight/plant (21.1 %) contributed maximum for diversity. Character association studies revealed that kernel weight/ plant is the most significantly correlated character followed by sound mature kernel weight/plant and no. of kernels/plant in the positive direction. High direct effect of sound mature kernel weight and indirect effect of it via kernel weight/plant on pod yield was noticed indicating the emphasis to be given on sound mature kernel weight in selection of genotypes for confectionery purposes. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicated the importance of first three Principal components in explaining total variation
Novel fungicidal management for basal stem rot disease of coconut: In vitro and in vivo perspectives
Get PDFBasal stem rot (BSR) disease, a lethal disease of coconut crop, induced by Ganoderma lucidum is prevalent and endemic in the East Coast region of the Tamil Nadu. The prolonged use of a single fungicide and the emerging issue of fungicide resistance raised concerns regarding disease control in this region. An integrated disease management strategy, incorporating new generation fungicides could help resolve these challenges. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research-AICRP on Plantation Crops (All India Co-ordinated Research Project) investigated different fungicides of single along with combination types against G. lucidum at three different concentrations (100, 250 and 500 ppm) in an in vitro study. Thirteen fungicides were screened and was found that hexaconazole 4 % + carbendazim 16 % SC, hexaconazole 5 % + validamycin 2.5 % SC as well as azoxystrobin 11 % + tebuconazole 18.3 % SC W/W were most effective in controlling G. lucidum even at lower concentrations. In field trial, two novel combination fungicides azoxystrobin 11 % + tebuconazole-18.3 % SC W/W and hexaconazole 5 % + validamycin 2 % SC, were utilized. In comparison to other treatments, treatment (T6), which consists of root feeding hexaconazole 5 % + validamycin-2.5 % SC @ 4 mL in 100 mL of water as well as drenching the soil with hexaconazole 5 % + validamycin-2.5 % SC @ 2 mL/L (15 L/palm) every three months, was the most successful in controlling the disease. This treatment reduced the BSR disease index by 12.43 % compared to the initial disease index and resulted in a 58.49 % increase in nut yield compared to the control