Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences
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Estimation of Genetic Diversity Using Principal Component Analysis and Cluster Analysis in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Germplasm based on Agro-morphological Traits
Get PDFThis experiment aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity in chickpea germplasm and select superior accessions for breeding resilient, high-yielding varieties in the Bundelkhand region. Two hundred and four germplasm accessions (204) were evaluated in a replicated augmented‐block design with four check varieties across five blocks. Principal component analysis revealed a significant amount of genetic diversity within the germplasm, as 12 principal components (PCs) were identified. The first five PCs, with eigenvalues greater than one, accounted for 74.966% of the variability among the accessions, while PCs 6 to 12 had eigenvalues less than one, indicating minimal contribution to the overall variation. PC1 showed a positive correlation with seed yield, biomass, and the number of pods per plant, highlighting its importance for productivity potential. Accessions with high PC1 scores could be advantageous for high-yield breeding programs. The characteristics that weighed most heavily on PC2 included days to flowering, days to maturity, and seeds per pod, indicating its relevance in determining growth duration and reproductive efficiency. This may help identify early- or late-maturing genotypes that are suitable for specific growing environments. Similarly, PC3 was primarily associated with plant height and 100-seed weight, while PC4 was positively related to the number of secondary branches per plant. The total genotypes were grouped into 10 clusters, with the highest inter-cluster distance found between cluster 1 and cluster 7 (6.7), indicating that these two clusters exhibit the most distinct genetic variations. Genotypes from these groups could be used to generate genetic diversity. These findings emphasize the genetic variability present in chickpea germplasm and its potential for breeding resilient varieties tailored to the agro-climatic conditions of Bundelkhand
Water Quality Index for Assessing Water Purification Ecosystem Services in Jakarta Urban Lake
Get PDFThis article aims to assess the ecosystem services related to water purification by analyzing the water quality conditions of three lakes in Jakarta, each with distinct characteristics. The analysis utilizes both national quality standards and the Water Quality Index (WQI). Water samples collected during the rainy and dry seasons were evaluated using the WQI, which combines various physical, chemical, and biological parameters into a single standardized score, comprehensively representing overall water quality. The study found that several water quality data points did not meet national standards for recreational use due to high levels of water pollutants. The fluctuating WQI values across the seasons indicated that seasonal variability significantly impacts water quality. The WQI scores for the lakes were categorized as medium to poor, with scores of 51.40 for Situ Babakan Lake, 45.20 for Srengseng Urban Forest Lake, and 46.20 for South Sunter Lake. Additionally, the results highlighted that water purification ecosystem services are influenced by the surrounding landscape conditions, human activities, and the presence of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) facilities. This information is expected to provide valuable insights for local government agencies to enhance lake water quality within environmental policy frameworks
The phytochemical screening and antioxidant potential of the hydroethanolic extract of Chenopodium album L.
Get PDFThis study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, mineral content, and antioxidant potential of the hydroethanolic extract of Chenopodium album (CAHE). The mineral content was analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) with samples prepared by acid digestion. Phytochemical profiling was conducted using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), employing a Supelco capillary column and helium as the carrier gas (1.21 mL/min). Mass spectra (m/z 40–600) were analyzed by matching with the NIST library. Bioactive compounds were identified based on the relative peak area and spectral comparisons. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through nitric oxide scavenging, DPPH radical scavenging, reducing power, and metal chelation assays, using ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) as standards. AAS analysis revealed high concentrations of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, sodium, and potassium, indicating the nutritional value of CAHE. GC-MS fingerprinting identified bioactive compounds such as linoleic acid ethyl ester, quercetin, and phytol, known for their antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, antioxidant assays demonstrated strong free radical scavenging activity. CAHE exhibited significant nitric oxide and DPPH radical scavenging activities compared to ascorbic acid and BHT, respectively, along with moderate metal chelating activity. These results highlight the potential of CAHE in combating diseases related to oxidative stress. The study confirms that C. album contains essential minerals and bioactive phytochemicals with potent antioxidant properties. Its capacity for free radical neutralization underscores its applicability in therapeutic and preventive healthcare products
Functional Surface Tailoring of Chak’o Nanoclay for Efficient Removal of Emerging Contaminants from the Mantaro River: Experimental Insights and Educational Applications in Environmental Science
Get PDFThis study investigated the performance of Chak'o nanoclay after sequential amine functionalization and polymeric (polystyrene sulfonate) coating for the selective removal of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and heavy metals from water in the Mantaro River in Peru. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted using adsorbent doses of 0.5 to 2.0 g L⁻¹, contact times of 1 to 6 hours, and controlled pH levels. Analytes, including diclofenac and atrazine, were quantified using HPLC, while lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) were measured with ICP-MS. Under optimized conditions, the modified nano-clay achieved removal efficiencies of 92.4% for diclofenac, 93.0% for atrazine, and 99.5% for lead. The equilibrium data were best described by the Langmuir Model, indicating monolayer uptake, with maximum adsorption capacities of 45.6 mg g⁻¹ for diclofenac, 48.3 mg g⁻¹ for atrazine, 120.7 mg g⁻¹ for lead, and 104.3 mg g⁻¹ for cadmium. Kinetic fitting favored the pseudo-second-order model, suggesting that the uptake process was controlled by chemisorption. The adsorbent maintained at least 85% of its initial capacity across five regeneration cycles, including an ethanol wash and drying at 60 °C, demonstrating practical reusability. Post-treatment water met food processing standards for turbidity and dissolved solids and showed reduced microbial counts. Overall, surface-modified Chak'o nanoclay provides an effective and sustainable solution for removing co-occurring emerging contaminants and toxic metals from river water, thereby supporting safer water use in agri-food applications in pollution-affected regions
Multidimensional Analysis of Meteorological Information as a Lever for Adoption of Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices: a Case Study in Senegal
Get PDFThe effects of climate change significantly impact critical sectors, such as agriculture, which threaten food security for smallholder farmers in Senegal. In response to this challenge, climate-smart agricultural practices and the utilization of climate information are essential for building resilience. However, the factors influencing the adoption of these practices are not well understood, which limits the effectiveness of adaptation policies. This study aimed to identify the factors that influence the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices among smallholder farmers in Senegal. A total of 341 households were surveyed, with data collected through questionnaires and interviews. The data were analyzed using Epi-Data and SPSS software. Univariate and bivariate analyses were conducted, and a multivariate binary regression model was developed to identify the factors affecting the adoption of these agricultural practices. The results indicate that practices such as harvest timing, land preparation, sowing or planting timing, post-harvest treatments, and intercropping have an adoption rate of 60%. Notably, the timing of forecast communication emerged as the most significant factor, with an adoption rate of 57.2%. The study also reveals a significant direct relationship between the use of meteorological information and the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices, with a regression coefficient (B) of 0.498 and a t-value of 8.396. Furthermore, confidence in meteorological information plays a crucial mediating role in this relationship (Z = 6.454, p < 0.000001). Despite this mediation, the direct link remains significant. These findings offer valuable insights into promoting climate-smart practices among smallholder farmers and can inform policies aimed at enhancing agricultural resilience in the face of climate change
Improving the Accuracy of Pregnancy Detection in Balb/C Mice: Innovation in Animal Model Pregnancy Research Application
Get PDFAccurate detection of pregnancy in BALB/c mice is crucial for ensuring efficiency and reproducibility in biomedical research. Standard methods, such as vaginal plug examination, ultrasonography, and weight monitoring, often exhibit limited sensitivity and specificity. This study aimed to evaluate and compare various methods for detecting pregnancy to establish a more reliable and precise strategy for determining pregnancy status in mice. The study involved 40 BALB/c mice (30 females and 10 males) with a mating ratio of 3:1. The mice were mated and monitored for signs of pregnancy using vaginal swabs, ultrasound, and weight gain assessments. The examinations were repeated from the first day to the 20th day of pregnancy. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical tests, the Shapiro-Wilk normality test, and Spearman and Kendall correlation tests to assess the relationship between variables. The results indicated that the vaginal swab method had an Area Under Curve (AUC) of 0.87, suggesting a reasonably good ability to differentiate between pregnant and non-pregnant mice. In contrast, weight gain and ultrasound methods demonstrated higher accuracy, with AUC values exceeding 0.95. A significant correlation was found between weight gain and the number of fetuses (r = 0.44), while premarital weight showed a negative correlation with the number of fetuses (r = -0.34). Overall, weight gain, ultrasound, and vaginal swabs are effective methods for detecting pregnancy in BALB/c mice. Combining these techniques could enhance the accuracy of pregnancy detection and reduce error rates in biomedical research. Further studies are recommended to develop more efficient and accessible techniques for pregnancy detection in research settings
Effects of Scapular Stabilization Exercise in Young Adults with Forward Head Posture
Get PDFForward head posture (FHP) is an abnormal cervical curvature related to muscular imbalances between the agonist and antagonist muscle groups in the shoulders. This condition can lead to pain and a decreased quality of life. FHP has become increasingly common among undergraduate students; however, research on effective interventions is limited and varies in methodology. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of scapular stabilization exercises on FHP in young adults. A randomized experimental study was conducted using a single-subject design (AB design) with 34 young adult participants selected through convenience sampling. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group received a 4-week program of scapular retraction exercises, including five exercises and ergonomic advice. In contrast, the control group received only ergonomic advice. The craniovertebral angle (CVA) was measured before treatment, at the 2-week mark, and after the 4-week treatment period to assess changes in head posture. Results indicated a significant improvement in CVA within the intervention group at both the 2nd and 4th weeks, demonstrating a positive effect of scapular retraction exercises on FHP. Between-group analysis also revealed a significant difference in CVA at the 4th week in favor of the intervention group. No significant differences were observed based on gender or BMI. In conclusion, the study found that a 4-week scapular stabilization exercise program effectively improved FHP among young adults. This simple and practical intervention provides a valuable protocol for physiotherapy strategies focused on postural correction
A comparative mini review of the phytochemicals and biological properties of haustorium and endosperm of Cocos nucifera
Get PDFNatural substances derived from plants and herbs are excellent sources of therapeutic drugs, offering numerous vital properties that benefit human health. Recently, there has been increased interest in utilizing natural products. One notable plant with significant nutraceutical and health benefits is the coconut tree (Cocos nucifera). Humans use various products from the coconut tree, such as coconut oil, water, and husk. Previous research has extensively explored coconut fruit’s endosperm’s nutritional, antioxidant, and phytochemical properties. However, there are limited studies on the phytochemical and nutraceutical attributes of the coconut haustorium, an edible part of the fruit. The coconut haustorium possesses considerable benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal, antimicrobial, antitumor, analgesic, antipyretic, antidiarrheal, and antidiabetic properties. This review aims to summarize and compare the phytochemical and nutraceutical properties of the coconut haustorium with those of its endosperm. The findings conclude that the coconut haustorium exhibits outstanding nutraceutical and phytochemical properties comparable to the endosperm
The biofertilizer and biostimulant properties of a mixture of Spirulina sp. and Chlorella vulgaris biomass in Musa AAA Cavendish variety Valery seedlings
Get PDFThe agricultural sector is a major contributor to environmental pollution, including greenhouse gas emissions. Banana cultivation also significantly impacts these conditions due to the intensive use of commercial fertilizers. These fertilizers not only disrupt ecosystems and pollute water sources but also underscore the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. This research evaluated the potential of a biomass mixture comprised of the microalga Chlorella vulgaris and the cyanobacterium Spirulina sp. as a biofertilizer and biostimulant for Musa AAA Cavendish var. Valery seedlings grown under greenhouse conditions. The biomass was produced using cost-effective, large-scale methods and subsequently harvested, dried, and characterized for its physicochemical properties, which revealed a high organic matter content. Eight comparative treatments were applied as dry soil amendments at varying concentrations and were evaluated against a commercial fertilizer. During the study, various morphological traits of plants, pigment content, and soil properties were measured both before and after treatment. The results showed that biomass applications at 2 g/kg and 4 g/kg (T3 and T4) matched or surpassed the effectiveness of the commercial fertilizer in promoting pseudostem length, dry weight, leaf area, chlorophyll concentration, photosynthetic efficiency, nitrogen uptake, and CO₂ assimilation for banana growth and yield. Additionally, the microalgal biomass improved soil quality by increasing organic matter and the availability of essential micronutrients. These findings suggest that microalgal biomass can effectively replace chemical fertilizers, fostering a more sustainable banana cultivation system with a reduced carbon footprint. The study’s results recommend a phased application strategy: using T3 during the vegetative stage to stimulate early growth and T4 during the reproductive stage to support fruit development. This approach may optimize nutrient uptake and enhance overall crop productivity in an environmentally friendly manner
Detection of nuc and mecA from Canine Dermatoses Cases at Aizawl
Get PDFCanine dermatoses are commonly observed and are often caused by bacterial infections. One of the most prevalent pathogens responsible for various skin infections is Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Strains of Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), which carry the mecA gene, pose a significant challenge due to their reduced sensitivity to standard antibiotics. The widespread use of antibiotics for animal development and treatment has made resistant S. aureus a major global health concern that impacts humans as well. In this study, clinical samples (skin swabs) were collected from dogs that had dermatoses. Skin samples from affected dogs were cultured to isolate bacterial colonies. The presence of the mecA and nuc genes was identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). An antibiotic sensitivity test was conducted to determine the resistance patterns of the isolated bacteria. Out of the 733 dogs screened for dermatoses, 107 were diagnosed with the condition, and 65 tested positive for bacteria. Among those, 41 had various bacterial infections, 6 were identified as MRSA, and 18 were S. aureus. These findings will provide valuable insights into the prevalence of MRSA in canine skin disorders and enhance our understanding of antimicrobial resistance within the field of veterinary medicine. Results of the study revealed the presence of the nuc and mecA genes in bacterial isolates obtained from cases of canine dermatoses. This information is crucial for guiding appropriate antimicrobial treatments, implementing effective infection control measures, and assessing the risk of resistant strains spreading zoonotically, all of which contribute to a “One Health” approach