Horizon e-Publishing Group (HePG): E-Journals
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Fungal metabolites: Nature’s key to antiangiogenic cancer therapies
No full textFungi have been thriving on planet Earth for millions of years, playing multiple roles in diverse ecosystems. Both free-living and endophytic fungi contain a plethora of secondary metabolites with rich bioactivity, which can be harnessed for therapeutic purposes. Many tumors grow rapidly due to the neovasculature formed by the activity of angiogenic genes. One of the strategies to curb such cancers is the use of anti-angiogenic drugs. Many fungi are treasure houses of chemicals such as fumagillin, barbatolic acid, usnic acid, trichodimerol and cordycepin. These can be utilized as anticancer drugs to reduce the neovascularization of tumors, thereby leading to the cessation of growth and the shrinkage of the tumor. This strategy could be significantly enhanced by using fungal nanoparticles synthesized through green methods, providing a more targeted treatment. By exploiting the unique properties of the tumor, these nanoparticles can offer more efficient means of delivering anticancer drugs directly to tumor sites, facilitating precise targeted therapy. This review emphasizes the significant potential of green-synthesised nanoparticles and fungal metabolites as novel molecules for targeted cancer therapy. Further research into their synergistic effects may lead to improved treatment outcomes and the development of more potent anti-angiogenic medications than those currently available
Characterization of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria from black pepper rhizosphere: Antinomic activity and field efficacy of Pseudomonas isolate KBPf16
No full textA random survey was undertaken to collect the rhizosphere soil samples from major black (Piper nigrum) pepper growing in highly elevated areas of Tamil Nadu to isolate and evaluate the native strains of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), with a focus on their antinomic activity and potential to enhance crop growth. 100 rhizobacterial strains were isolated, of which six were identified as Pseudomonas spp. (KBPf23, KBPf16, BBPf16, BBPf22, YBPf17, and TBPf21), demonstrating significant growth-promoting and antinomic properties. Among these, the strain KBPf16 showed the highest antagonistic activity against Meloidogyne incognita, a root-knot nematode. Under pot culture conditions, the talc-based formulation of native Pseudomonas isolate KBPf16 recorded a significant increase in plant growth parameters, viz., plant height, shoot weight, root length, and root weight by checking nematode population in root and soil. The result of the field trials confirmed that KBPf16, applied as a talc-based formulation (20 g/vein in two splits), significantly reduced nematode populations and enhanced yield parameters in black pepper, increasing the yield to 3578.7 g/vein compared to the chemical control (2456.2 g/vein). Additionally, plants treated with KBPf16 exhibited elevated levels of defense-related enzymes, including peroxidase, phenols, polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), along with enhanced lignification in roots. These findings suggest that the cold-tolerant strain KBPf16 holds great potential as a biocontrol agent for sustainable nematode management and growth promotion in black pepper cultivation
Assessment of land use and land cover mapping using object-based classification techniques for the eastern districts of Tamil Nadu
No full textLULC (Land use and land cover) mapping is crucial for understanding environmental monitoring, supporting sustainable development, and managing natural resources. This study evaluated the accuracy of object-based LULC classification using Sentinel-2 data and machine learning classifiers in the Ariyalur, Perambalur, and Mayiladuthurai districts of Tamil Nadu during the kharif season of 2023. OBIA (Object-based image analysis) clusters pixels based on their spectral and spatial characteristics, utilizing segmentation to generate masks that effectively represent the image content. The OBIA methodology involves multiresolution segmentation using eCognition software to delineate homogeneous image objects based on spectral, spatial, and contextual characteristics. Several widely used machine learning algorithms, including Random forest (RF), Support vector machine (SVM), Decision Tree (DT), Naive bayes (NB) and k-nearest Neighbor (k-NN), were evaluated to improve classification accuracy. The classification results varied across the districts, with the RF algorithm consistently demonstrating high performance. The Perambalur and Mayiladuthurai RF achieved an overall accuracy of 88 %, with a kappa coefficient of 0.76 and 83 % and a kappa coefficient of 0.66. In Ariyalur, the DT model was used, with an accuracy of 85 % and a kappa coefficient of 0.70. The NB and k-NN classifiers achieved lower accuracies in all districts. In contrast, the RF algorithm was the most reliable for LULC classification in these areas, highlighting its strength and efficiency in accurately identifying complex land cover patterns
Global perspectives on socio-economic dynamics, marketing practices and challenges in jasmine trade: Evidence from a prominent Indian flower market
No full textJasmine, renowned for its fragrance and economic significance, is a vital commercial flower crop with extensive cultural and industrial applications. Despite its global demand, jasmine marketing faces persistent challenges, particularly in ensuring profitability and sustainability. This study investigates the socio-economic dynamics, marketing practices and challenges jasmine marketers face in the Madurai flower market, one of the largest flower trading hubs in southern India. Using a structured interview schedule, data were collected from 60 randomly selected marketers, focusing on their profiles, decision-making processes, packaging methods and trade strategies. Key findings reveal that most marketers are experienced professionals whose marketing behavior is significantly influenced by age, education and decision-making abilities. Grading, packaging and transportation practices were assessed, highlighting inefficiencies contributing to post-harvest losses. Critical constraints were identified as price volatility, perishability and inadequate infrastructure. Respondents emphasized the need for price stabilization mechanisms, advanced storage facilities and access to real-time market intelligence. This research provides actionable insights for enhancing jasmine market efficiency and profitability. The findings are particularly relevant to global markets, as jasmine is a key ingredient in the fragrance, essential oil and traditional medicine industries, with an estimated annual global market value of over USD 500 million. Addressing the constraints identified could reduce post-harvest losses by up to 20%, significantly increasing stakeholder economic returns. These insights have commercial and environmental implications, offering a roadmap for sustainable flower trade practices and supporting the livelihoods of farmers and marketers globally
Assessing sugarcane clones\u27 resilience to waterlogging stress and comprehending the physiological and morphological processes
No full textWaterlogging is a significant abiotic stressor that severely hampers sugarcane productionworldwide. To address this issue, experiments were conducted at the Sugarcane Research Station, Cuddalore, (TNAU), during 2022-2023 to evaluate the waterlogging tolerance of sugarcane clones.The experiment followed a factorial completely randomized design (FCRD) with three replications.Treatments included two water levels (control and waterlogging) and thirteen sugarcane clones orvarieties (Co 86032, C 2015 095, G 11035, C 2014 516, C 16338, C 30010, Co 15020, Co 62175, C2015 021, Si 2014 047, CoC 13339, C 2015 006, CoG 7). After 70 days of seedling, plants weresubjected to 20 days of waterlogging. Waterlogging stress significantly reduced total dry matterproduction, soluble protein, stomatal density, leaf area, above-ground fresh and dry weight, shootlength, root length and SPAD values in all sugarcane clones compared to the control. Conversely,the extent of aerenchyma and aerial roots increased. However, CoC 13339, C 16338, C 2014 516and Co 62175 demonstrated superior waterlogging tolerance among the 13 sugarcaneclones/varieties. These sugarcane clones/varieties have more adventitious roots at the base of theirstems, which most likely made it easier for the plants to survive waterlogging
Influence of weather factors on leaf gall thrips and scale infestation in black pepper
No full textThis study investigates the relationship between weather factors and the infestation levels of leaf gall thrips (Liothrips karnyi) and scales (Aspidiotus destructor) in black pepper (Piper nigrum L.). These 2 pests that significantly impact pepper production and quality. We analyzed data collected over multiple seasons, to assess how temperature, humidity, rainfall and other climatic variables influence pest prevalence and damage levels. The results reveal that weather factors influence pest damage in black pepper. For leaf gall thrips (%LDT), minimum (r = 0.298*) and maximum temperature (r = 0.771**) showed positive correlations, while maximum humidity (r = - 0.364**), minimum humidity (r = - 0.511**) and rainfall (r = - 0.605**) had negative correlations. Regression models revealed maximum temperature, minimum humidity and rainfall as key predictors, explaining 72.6% of % LDT variation. For scales (%SDS), maximum temperature (r = 0.638**) positively correlated, while rainfall (r = - 0.604**) and humidity negatively correlated. Regression identified maximum temperature, rainfall and minimum temperature as significant, explaining 60.6% of %SDS variability. Maximum temperature consistently increased pest damage, while higher humidity and rainfall reduced it. Our findings suggest that optimal management of these pests requires tailored strategies based on seasonal weather patterns. The outcomes provide valuable insights for farmers, agronomists and policymakers, emphasizing the need for adaptive pest management strategies to counteract climate variability\u27s potential impacts on black pepper\u27s pest dynamics
Evaluation of cassava genotypes for hilly areas under rainfed conditions
No full textIn Tamil Nadu, India, cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is cultivated under both rainfed and irrigated conditions, primarily for industrial and culinary purposes. Drought poses a significant constraint for cassava cultivation, especially in hilly terrains where water retention is limited. Water scarcity adversely affects cassava growth, leading to reduced leaf area, stunted root development, and ultimately lower yields. Studies have shown that under drought conditions, cassava experiences reductions in leaf water potential, osmotic potential, photosynthesis, and stomatal conductance, all of which contribute to decreased productivity. To address these challenges, high-yielding, high-starch, drought tolerance cassava genotypes (characterized by high relative water content and greater chlorophyll stability index) as well as pest and disease resistant varieties, must be evaluated for their suitability in hilly regions with poor and marginal soils and limited rainfall. The natural resilience of cassava to harsh conditions makes it an essential crop for resources-limited farmers in marginal locations. In Tamil Nadu, the Salem district hosts approximately 800 small-scale sago and starch production facilities. Salem is surrounded by hills where cassava is the primary crop. Farmers face several challenges, such as poor rainfall, low-yielding varieties, pest and disease incidence, and low market prices. Hence, it is very important to evaluate and identify suitable genotypes that can tolerate water deficits, resist disease, yield high, and produce greater starch content. Yield and quality traits have direct impact on economic returns for farmers and determine cassava suitability for various industrial applications. Additionally, plant architecture plays a critical role in enabling cassava to withstand environmental stresses common in hilly areas, such as strong winds and heavy rainfall. This study systematically evaluates these traits, aiming to identify and promote suitable cassava genotypes that can enhance the livelihoods of tribal farmers in hilly regions
Technology-driven chickpea yield estimation using remote sensing and crop modeling
No full textThis study estimated chickpea area and yield in Vidisha district, Madhya Pradesh, during Rabi 2022-23 by integrating Sentinel-1A SAR satellite data with the CROPGRO-Chickpea crop simulation model. Sentinel-1A VH-polarized GRD data (20 m spatial resolution) were processed using MAPscape software at 12-day intervals. Temporal backscatter analysis identified distinct growth-stage signatures, enabling accurate crop classification. The total classified chickpea area was 109112 ha. Classification accuracy was 86.8 %, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.74. The DSSAT model simulated chickpea growth and yield, with maximum Leaf Area Index ranging from 1.8 to 4.9 and yields from 1410 to 2449 kg ha-1. Remote sensing-based chickpea yield estimates ranged between 1420 and 2330 kg ha-1. Validation showed strong agreement between observed and simulated values, with accuracies of 89.1 % for LAI and 91.7 % for yield. This study underscores the effectiveness of integrating remote sensing and crop modelling for precise, scalable agricultural monitoring, supporting sustainable crop management and food security
Bioactivities of Ximenia americana L. with a spotlight on probing its anti-Helicobacter pylori potential: A bioprospection review coupled molecular docking study
No full textThe medicinal plant Ximenia americana L., often called hog plum or wild olive, is indigenous to Africa and some regions of India and is well-known for its wide range of therapeutic uses. The phytochemical contents and therapeutic potential of X.americana are the primary focus of this review, which focuses on the antibacterial (anti-Helicobacter pylori) and antioxidant potentials. People have long used this plant to cure various illnesses, including fever, gastrointestinal issues and skin infections. Recent research has emphasized its substantial antioxidant potential, with leaf extracts demonstrating potent free radical scavenging properties. Studies on antimicrobials have validated their historical use in folk medicine, demonstrating notable efficacy against various harmful bacteria and fungi. However, researchers are still investigating their potential to combat H.pylori. Phytochemical analyses from multiple studies found a wealth of bioactive substances, including flavonoids, tannins and saponins, adding to its therapeutic advantages. This review highlights the value of X.americana as a natural resource and the need for more study to thoroughly understand its mechanism of action and possible uses in contemporary medicine, especially for illnesses linked to oxidative stress and infections caused by Helicobacter pylori. The anti-H. pylori action of epicatechin, rutin, cumaroyl-o-galloyl-glucose, quinic acid and procyanidin derived from X.americana via molecular docking is therefore highlighted in this review along with the bioprospection. Our results, however, call for more research on the bioactive extrolites of X. americana and their unique interaction with PPX/GppA in complex with GNP proteins to better acknowledge their potential as a treatment for H. pylori
In-situ decomposition of sugarcane trash using microbial consortium and its impact on ratoon cane
No full textSugarcane trash, consisting of leaves and stalk residues left after harvesting, poses challenges such as slow decomposition, nutrient imbalance and environmental concerns. This study explores an eco-friendly approach to sugarcane trash management using a microbial consortium to accelerate decomposition and improve soil health and ratoon cane yield. These microorganisms facilitate sugarcane trash decomposition by reducing the C: N ratio and breaking down lignocellulosic compounds. Applying a trash decomposer at 30 kg/ha on the 3rd, 15th and 30th days after harvest, along with 100% RDF fertilizers, significantly reduced sugarcane trashs’ C: N ratio to 18.25 by the 60th day. This treatment also improved growth and yield parameters in the ratoon crop. FTIR analysis confirmed compost maturity, shifting from aliphatic to aromatic compounds. The nitrate band at 1384 per cm intensified, while peak ratio changes indicated intensified decomposition progress of the trash. A higher proportion of cellulose-degrading consortia in trash D promoted the breakdown of complex molecules and reduced humification during in-situ decomposition. The findings suggest that integrating microbial decomposition strategies with lignocellulosic residues could enhance soil fertility, thus enhancing nutrient availability