Journal of Applied and Natural Science
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Efficacy of Allium stracheyi extract infused edible coating in controlling oxidative stability and microbial degradation in chicken meat patties
Get PDFThere is a gradual shift in consumers\u27 attitudes towards the use of natural food preservatives due to growing awareness for healthy and safe food. The current investigation aimed to develop sodium alginate edible coating (SDG-EC) infused with Allium stracheyi (AS) extract to control the oxidative and microbial degradation of chicken meat patties (CP) during 15 days of storage at 4±10C. The AS extract was made using lyophilization and cold extraction with 50% hydroethanol. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of several functional groups, such as -OH, -COOH, C-H, C=O, etc., in AS extract, suggesting the existence of bioactive components. The final treatments were C (uncoated chicken patties), T1 (Chicken patties coated with SDG-EC), T2 (Chicken patties coated with 1% AS SDG-EC), and T 3 (chicken patties coated with 2% AS SDG-EC). The results showed that throughout storage, Cs pH was significantly greater (p<0.05). On the 15th day, T3 had a relatively lower pH than other treatments. T3 TVB-N (mg/100g) and Thiobarbituric acid reacting substance (mg MDA/1000g) readings were noticeably lower than those of C, T1, and T2. In comparison to C, total plate count decreased significantly (p<0.05) in T1, T2, and T3. Yeast, mold, and S. aureus were not found on the first or fifth day. The yeast, mold, and S. aureus (cfu/g) of T2 and T3 considerably decreased on the 10th and 15th day. Throughout storage, no coliforms were found in any treatment. It was concluded that A. stracheyi-infused edible coating successfully maintained the oxidative and microbial quality of CP for 15 days at 4±10C.
A new spectral index for vegetation extraction using satellite data
Get PDFAccurate vegetation extraction is essential for environmental monitoring, agricultural management, and ecosystem analysis applications. Traditional spectral indices, however, often suffer from reduced accuracy and sensitivity under varying environmental conditions. This research aimed to address these limitations by introducing a novel spectral index, "A New Vegetation Index" (ANVI), specifically designed for enhanced vegetation extraction for satellite imagery. ANVI leverages multiple spectral bands, including near-infrared (NIR), shortwave infrared (SWIR), and visible bands, commonly available in remote sensing data. The research involves implementing ANVI within a remote sensing framework and conducting a comparative analysis against established indices across diverse geographic regions. Key metrics such as accuracy, resilience to atmospheric disturbances, and sensitivity to soil background influences were evaluated. The results demonstrated that ANVI achieved a superior overall accuracy of 97.08% in vegetation classification and greater robustness against atmospheric noise than conventional indices. Furthermore, ANVI reduced soil background influence by significantly improving its performance under complex environmental conditions. This research highlights the novelty of ANVI as a computationally efficient and reliable tool for large-scale vegetation monitoring, offering enhanced precision and adaptability for diverse applications in remote sensing and ecological management.
Comparative evaluation of growth and reproductive performance of Eisenia fetida in various agro-industrial wastes blended with horse manure in Ethiopia
Get PDFUnderstanding how different substrates impact the reproductive and growth potential of vermicomposting worms is essential for optimizing their application in waste management across diverse sources and promoting sustainable agriculture. The present study assessed the growth and reproductive performance of Eisenia fetida, a key vermicomposting species, across three agro-industrial wastes: brewery malt sludge (W1), potato chip factory waste (W2), and avocado oil factory sludge (W3), mixed with horse manure at a 3:1 ratio. Parameters such as growth, sexual maturation, cocoon production rate, incubation period, and hatching success were evaluated. Results showed cocoon production rates of 0.43 ± 1.22 per worm per day in W1, 0.40 ± 1.44 in W2, and 0.27 ± 1.62 in W3. The highest hatchling count per cocoon (3.16 ± 0.54) and maximum weight gain (0.65 ± 0.98 grams) were observed in W1. Waste from W1 and W2 were found to be highly effective substrates for the growth and reproductive performance of Eisenia fetida. In contrast, waste from W3 an avocado oil factory showed comparatively lower performance. No mortality was observed, indicating that these agro-industries could effectively manage their waste through vermicomposting by utilizing appropriate worm species, such as E. fetida.
Enhancement of productivity and profitability of grafted brinjal under Integrated nutrient management practices
Get PDFIntegration of grafting technique and tailored nutrient management strategies provides a sustainable solution to address the production challenges and stress management in the cultivation of short-duration fruits and vegetables. The present study aimed to assess the productivity, nutrient uptake efficiency, plant resilience and economic viability of brinjal farming by evaluating the synergistic effect between grafted brinjal and integrated nutrient management (INM) practices. A pot experiment was conducted at the Central Horticultural Experiment Station (ICAR-CHES), Aiginia, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from 2022-2023. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with ten treatments and replicated thrice. The yield performance of grafted brinjal improved with the application of 75% RDF through chemical fertilization and substitution of 25% N by FYM and vermicompost (37.8 and 35.6 t ha-1, respectively). Supplementation of 25% N through vermicompost and FYM proved to be the best treatment with respect to available nutrient content in soil. The results depicted highest apparent N recovery (55 kg ha-1), agronomic use efficiency (156 kg fruit kg-1 of nutrient applied) and relative agronomic efficiency (1.24) with the utilization of chemical fertilizers and FYM in a 3:1 ratio. The integrated application of chemical fertilizers and organic amendments significantly enhanced the productivity and profitability of grafted brinjal. This strategy addressed both the agronomic and environmental sustainability approach, making it a viable and effective solution for the farmers of the Odisha region.
Amino acid and fatty acid profile of five small Indigenous fish species (SIS) from Assam, India
Get PDFBoth proteins and fatty acids are significant macromolecules that control vital metabolic processes and act as building blocks for forming compounds crucial to biological processes. Fish are a significant source of high-quality protein and fatty acids in human nutrition. In this study, the amino acid fatty acid profile of five sun-dried small Indigenous fish species (SIS), viz., Anabus testudineus, Barilius barila, Gudusia chapra, Nandus nandus and Puntius sophore. The amino acid profile was determined using standard analytical techniques, while the fatty acid composition was assessed according to the AOAC method by preparing fatty acid methyl esters (FAME).The total detected essential amino acid concentrations in A. testudineus, B. barila, G. chapra, N. nandus, and P. sophore were 2788.23±5.74, 2939.86±7.6, 2750.44±12.93, 2534.41±4.77 and 1319.21±8.45µmol/L, and the concentrations of nonessential amino acids are 9141.48±6.18, 9493.55±9.58, 8523.89±13.1, 8261.06±9.96 and 4572.77±7.69 µmol/L. The study identified 23 fatty acids, with palmitic acid being the most abundant saturated fatty acid, followed by Myristic, Arachidic, Pentadecanoic, Margaric, Stearic, and Tridecanoic acids, with very low amounts of Behenic and Lignoceric acids. The present study has examined the amino acid compositions of significant dietary fish from various habitats (viz., River, beel, reservoirs, ponds and tanks, etc). Therefore, these can be recommended as a healthy supplement to the human diet, an alternate source of protein, and another nutrient requirement.
Non-timber forest products in management of tribal livelihood of Eastern Himalayan Region: A sustainability analysis
Get PDFThe North Eastern region of India is home to unique and diverse species of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs), which are a rich source of income and play an important role in the living traditions of its people. The study was conducted in Meghalaya (East Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi) and Nagaland (Mokokchung, Peren), selecting two districts per state. From 20 villages across four Rural Development blocks, 250 respondents were proportionately chosen based on household availability. The study employed an exploratory research design using panel data and a purposive sampling technique, with the survey conducted during 2021-22. The study found that income from NTFPs contributed to socioeconomic sustainability in Nagaland, whereas Meghalaya faced an unsustainable scenario. NTFP income was deemed unsustainable due to monetary value fluctuations and inflation. Among the 47 identified NTFPs, broom grass, bamboo, mushroom, bamboo shoot, and snail were highly preferred for their demand and profitability. The vulnerability index indicated that Asian honeybee (3.57), betel leaf vine (3.40), and wild black pepper (3.13) were ecologically very vulnerable due to overuse, low regeneration, and indiscriminate harvesting. Some species were moderately vulnerable, while most were less vulnerable. Strict regulation by local conservation bodies, traditional institutions, and the state forest department is essential to prevent illegal forest destruction. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs, GOI, should expand Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) under TRIFED to enhance value addition, branding, and marketing, ensuring sustainable livelihoods and fair returns for forest-dependent communities.
Chronosequence variation in soil properties of sandstone quarry spoil surrounding Aizawl, Mizoram and its impact on the growth of Coriandrum sativum
Get PDFSandstone quarrying is a major income-generating enterprise inAizwalCity of Mizoram, India. The by-product, sandstone dust, is dumped near the mining area, potentially affecting soil and water quality. The present study seeks to understand the soil development process over time by analyzing soil parameters in chronosequence, viz. fresh, 2-year, 4-year, 6-year, 8-year, 10-year, and 12-year-old dumps, and evaluating growth parameters of Coriandrum sativum (Coriander) in soils of different ages under greenhouse conditions. The soil moisture content of the soil increased with the age of the soil and freshly dumped sandstone quarry spoil had the highest levels of pH (7.7) and electrical conductivity (13.16 dS/m), which dramatically dropped to 5.4 and3.45dS/m, respectively, as the soil grew older. Other soil qualities, which included water-holding capacity, soil organic carbon (from 0.46%-0.78%), available nitrogen (from 38kg/ha-217.33kg/ha), and available potassium (from11kg/ha-22kg/ha) also improved with age. Although significant variation was observed in germination parameters among dumps of various ages, germination was not deterred in fresh dumps. Growth parameters improved as the soil matured, with maximum values observed at 12 the old dump. However, the slow development of coriander, even after 12 years, indicates that soil amendment techniques should be used to accelerate the recovery of plant attributes and eco-restoration of such sites.
Development of nutritional Spread (ready-to-serve food) from Cucumis callosus: Impact on physicochemical, nutritional, and sensory attributes during storage
Get PDFNutrient deficiency disorders due to malnutrition are rapidly increasing and are associated with numerous co-morbidities. In such a scenario, developing functional food and value-added products from pharmacologically, nutritionally, and therapeutically rich plants is essential. Hence, the present study aimed to develop a nutritionally rich and healthier functional food, i.e., spread from Cucumis callosus (CA) by blending with Malus domestica (MD). Various blends were prepared manually for MD: CA, i.e., C (100:0), T1 (50:50), T2 (25:75), and T3 (0:100). The developed Spread was stored at room temperature and further evaluated for nutritional, sensory, and shelf-life attributes for three months. The developed product indicated that the blending and storage period had a significant (p<0.05) impact on nutritional parameters. The TSS (68.22±0.06 to 69.83±0.050Bx), pH (3.24±0.13 to 4.97±0.00), titrable acidity (1.18±0.08 to 1.66±0.12%), pectin (0.28±0.02 to 0.83±0.03%), β-carotene (2.07±0.02 to 3.00±0.02mg/100gm), vitamin A (3.45±0.03 to 4.98±0.06 I.U.), anthocyanin (1.29±0.38 to 1.71±0.08mg/100gm), reducing sugar (19.88±0.18 to 27.73±0.24%), total sugar (55.01±0.10 to 60.14±0.07%), non-reducing sugar (30.30±0.63 to 34.44±0.15%), moisture (45.17±0.03 to 57.05±0.11%), and ash (0.50±0.02 to 0.56±0.01%) varied significantly. In terms of sensory evaluation, all the blends showed non-significant differences. However, the spread T3 (100% CA pulp) received the highest score, indicating its high sensory acceptability. This indicates that CA can be utilized to develop intermediate moisture food products, i.e., spread with nutritional richness and sensory acceptability.
Role of psyllium husk in metabolic disease management: A review
Get PDFThe carbohydrate-rich plant-based dietary fibres, commonly known as roughage, are indigestible in the human intestine. Fruits, vegetables, cereal grains, nuts, and legumes are the most common sources of dietary fibers. An adequate intake of natural dietary fibre is linked to improved intestinal health and reduced metabolic conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Psyllium husk is a plant-based dietary fibre source with potential health benefits. It is a derivative of seeds of Plantago ovata from Plantaginaceae family. This review examines the botanical origin, biochemical properties, health benefits, role in managing various diseases, safety, and recommended dosages. Psyllium enhances gastrointestinal health by alleviating constipation, regulating bowel movements, controlling diarrhoea, and promoting a balanced gut microbiota through its excellent gelling properties. As a prebiotic, it stimulates digestion and reduces inflammation by promoting the growth of gut-beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. It is a valued dietary supplement that helps manage metabolic syndrome, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Psyllium increases satiety, decreases hunger, and reduces caloric intake, all of which are beneficial in weight management. It contributes to reducing postprandial peaks by enhancing insulin sensitivity and regulating blood glucose levels. It binds bile acids in the intestine and minimizes the levels of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), thus favouring cardiovascular health while eliminating the possibility of atherosclerosis. Psyllium’s efficacy in addressing kidney diseases, cognitive issues, and skin inflammation, based on the gut-brain axis association, is an emerging area of research. The diverse health benefits profile of psyllium husk provides an opportunity to explore its innovative applications in functional foods and nutraceuticals, offering a promising solution to modern dietary and health issues.
Assessment of heterosis and combining ability for yield and oil traits in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) contributing to the revival of India\u27s cotton sector
Get PDFCotton is a major commercial crop with global importance, especially in the textile sector. Enhancing its yield and fibre quality through hybrid breeding is a key goal in crop improvement. This study was conducted during Kharif 2024 at Lovely Professional University, School of Agriculture, Genetics and Plant Breeding Research Farm in Phagwara, Punjab, to evaluate combining ability, gene action, and heterosis in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). A total of 24 F1 hybrids were developed using 10 cotton genotypes (6 lines and 4 testers) along with a standard check (G. Cot. Hy 18) in a line × tester design. Analysis of variance revealed significant variability in seed yield, boll weight, and fibre quality traits, indicating potential for improvement. Non-additive gene action was observed for seed yield, boll production, and fiber quality, whereas additive gene action was prominent for earliness traits like flowering and boll bursting. The lines 761H20 and GJHV-510, along with the tester Sanjay (CJ-73), were identified as effective general combiners for seed yield, boll weight, and fiber quality. Among the hybrids, 761H20 × V-797, GJHV-503 × Guj. Cot.-15, and 761H20 × Deviraj stood out as the top performers, exhibiting strong performance, high SCA effects, and improved heterosis for yield and fiber traits. Additionally, the hybrid GJC-101 × V-797 showed excellent performance in boll production and weight. These hybrids have strong potential for commercial through heterosis breeding.. The variance ratio (σ²GCA/σ²SCA) being less than one confirmed the predominance of non-additive gene action. This study provides insights for developing superior cotton hybrids.