Journal of Applied and Natural Science
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Foliar spray of urea and nano-urea in yield and economics of maize (Zea mays L.)
Full text linkApplying urea is becoming more and more rapidly rising worldwide; nonetheless, the present study aimed to investigate the influence of using nitrogen fertilizer in the soil application in conjunction with foliar spraying of urea and nano-urea on the yield and economics of maize (Syngenta NK 6802) crop during rabi season of 2024. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with seven treatments T1 : 100 % RDF, T2 : 75% RDF, T3 : 75% RDF + foliar spray of urea @ 0.5% at knee height and tasselling stage, T4 : 75% + RDF foliar spray of urea @ 1% at knee height and tasselling stage, T5 : 75% RDF + foliar spray of nano-urea @ 0.2% at knee height and tasselling stage, T6 : 75% RDF + foliar spray of nano-urea @ 0.3% at knee height and tasselling stage, T7 : 75% RDF + foliar spray of nano-urea @ 0.4% at knee height and tasselling stage. Among the treatment 4 recorded significantly highest Plant height (139.83 cm), TDMP (94.32 g), Cob length (19 cm), Number of grains per row (24.67), Number of rows per cob (14.43), Stover yield (8636 kg/ha), Grain yield (6415 kg/ha), Gross return (₹ 166910.91), Net return (₹ 124169.68) and B: C ratio (2.91) as well as improving nutrient uptake and its efficiency. Therefore, the phenology, growth, yield, and profitability of maize and nitrogen fertiliser applications have been structured as per this combination of uptake to avoid losses by leaching and crop response.
Exploring the influence of water stress on iron and zinc accumulation in foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) genotypes
Full text linkFoxtail millet is a climate resilient crop rich in nutrients. However, the adverse conditions can affect the nutritional composition of the grains. The present study aimed to study the effect of drought on iron and zinc content of thirty foxtail millet [(Setaria italica (L.)] genotypes. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design under normal and drought conditions. The grain iron and zinc content were determined for both conditions. The result showed significant variation in iron concentration ranging from 21.32 to 61.19 ppm under normal condition, while zinc content ranged from 21.51 to 35.37 ppm. The highest iron and zinc content was found in the genotype IIMRFXM-11 (61.19 ppm) and STFO-7 (35.37 ppm), while the lowest was found in genotype GPUF-16 (21.32 ppm) and SiA3156 (21.51 ppm), respectively. Under drought condition iron content ranged from 19.62 ppm to 59.49 ppm, whereas zinc content ranged from 20.12 ppm to 33.97 ppm. The highest iron and zinc content was found in genotype IIMRFXM-11 (59.49 ppm) and STFO-6 (33.97 ppm), while the lowest was found in genotype GPUF-16 (19.62 ppm) and SiA3156 (20.11 ppm), respectively. The grain iron and zinc content variation may be due to genetic differences that influence plant nutrient uptake, transport, and storage mechanisms. An overall iron and zinc concentration decrease was observed under drought conditions for all the genotypes except IIMRFXM-11 and R. KAUNI-1. The experiments concluded a reduction in grain iron and zinc accumulation in foxtail millets subjected to water stress.
Revealing the higher degree statistics and transgressive segregation pattern of nutritional and agronomical traits in the segregating population derived from Samba Mahsuri and Sathi of rice (Oryza sativa)
Full text linkRice is the richest source of starch and carbohydrates but is deficient in major micronutrients such as iron and zinc. Slight enrichment with these micronutrients could help combat malnutrition. For a successful plant breeding program, genetic variability is crucial. Thus, the research aimed to analyze the description of statistics and transgressive segregation among the nutritional and agronomical traits in the F2 rice population. In this context, 190 progenies from the F2 population and parents were sown in Kharif 2020. Ten agronomical and two nutritional traits (grain iron and zinc content) were recorded from each genotype of the F2 population. All the recorded data were subjected to descriptive analysis and transgressive segregants were recorded for grain iron and zinc content. Descriptive analysis revealed positive skewness for the number of effective tillers per plant (0.998), grain length-breadth ratio (0.256), thousand-grain weight (0.875), grain zinc content (0.232), and grain yield per plant (1.460). Negative skewness was recorded for days to fifty per cent flowering (-2.805), plant height (-0.396), panicle length (-0.150), grain breadth (-0.335), and grain iron content (-0.356). The number of filled grains per panicle, grain length breadth ratio, grain zinc, and iron content exhibited the platykurtic nature of the distribution curve. Concerning transgressive segregants of nutritional traits, ten were observed for grain zinc content and thirty for grain iron content in the F2 rice population. These transgressive segregants for grain zinc and iron content might be used for developing advanced breeding lines, and skewness and kurtosis provide necessary genetic information for gene interaction.
Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using leaves of Lantana camara: Impact of extract quantity, reaction time on shape, size and antibacterial activity
Full text linkTypes of plant extract, concentration of precursor solution and the incubation time play a significant role in the kinetics of nanoparticle formation during green synthesis. The present study focused on the effect of these factors on the size, uniformity and antibacterial activity of synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Lantana camara leaf extract was used as a reducing and stabilizing agent for the biosynthesis of AgNPs. The synthesis process involved the careful preparation of leaf extract (10%), followed by the reaction of different volumes 10, 5, 2 and 1ml of extract with 50ml of 1.0mM silver nitrate solution under controlled conditions with reaction time of 10, 30, 45 and 1hrrespectively-vis spectrum indicated a characteristic single peak at 423nm, 429nm, 435nm and 443nm for samples following increasing quantity of leaf extract. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed a decrease in the size of nanoparticles and an increase in incubation time. The size of the particles was 12 nm, 15nm, 17nm and 23nm, respectively, during the incubation time of 10, 30, 45 and 1hr. The antibacterial efficacy of the AgNPs was evaluated against Escherichia coli O157:H7, and a significant increase in antibacterial activity was demonstrated with a decrease in size. FTIR revealed the involvement of hydroxyl, carbonyl and amide groups in reducing and stabilizing agents present in leaf extract for the synthesis of nanoparticles. This study authenticates the advantages of using L. camara for green synthesis of silver nanoparticles; more prolonged incubation with lower concentrations of precursor solution resulted in smaller nanoparticles with higher antibacterial activity.
A comprehensive review of the microbial aspects of enhancing the nutritional quality of ethnic fermented fish products in Asia
Full text linkFermentation has long been utilized as a preservation method that improves the safety, longevity, and overall nutritional and sensory quality of food items such as fish. In numerous Asian regions, fermented fish products are deeply embedded in culinary traditions and contribute significantly to local food industries. The fermentation process relies on specific microbial populations that drive biochemical changes, enhancing flavor and preservation while producing compounds with potential health-promoting effects. This review presents a current assessment of fermented fish varieties found throughout Asia, focusing on traditional preparation methods, dominant microbial species, and regional practices. It also examines the bioactive properties associated with these products, including their potential to exhibit anticancer, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, and anticoagulant activities. Emphasis is placed on the functional role of fermentation-associated bacteria in developing these health benefits. Additionally, this article outlines research priorities and underscores the necessity of in vivo experiments and toxicity evaluations to ensure safety before clinical or dietary use. Continued investigation in this area holds promise for advancing human nutrition and wellness and expanding innovation within the food processing sector.
Phenotypic and molecular diagnosis of Trichoderma spp. isolated from the local soil of Nineveh Governorate, Iraq
Full text linkTrichoderma spp. is a common soil fungus that penetrates plant roots and engages with various microorganisms and plants. The present study aimed to determine the phylogenetic relationships of rhizosphere isolates of Trichoderma spp. obtained from the local soil in Mosul in the north of Iraq utilizing the sequence of the internal transcribed spacer-1 (ITS-1) region of the ribosomal DNA of eight Trichoderma spp.. Approximately 192 samples were collected between March and October 2023 from the rhizospheric soil of Potato )Solanum tuberosum), Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), Wheat (Triticum aestivum), Barley (Hordeum vulgare), Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) and Citrus (Citrus limon (. Only 5.8% of the rhizosphere samples belonged to Trichoderma spp. The samples were identified based on morphological characteristics and molecular techniques. All the selected isolates amplified a similar band (660 bp). The nucleotide sequences were then analyzed, and a phylogenetic tree was constructed to compare the present isolates with the closest isolates submitted to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Isolates were submitted to NCBI as new strains under the accession numbers: Trichoderma harzianum (PP968131), T. longibrachiatum (PP977534), T. harzianum (PP977576), T. longibrachiatum (PP989798), Trichoderma longibrachiatum (PP989800), T. longibrachiatum (PP989803), T. longibrachiatum (PP989804), and T. harzianum (PP989805). This study expands the NCBI database with novel Trichoderma strains, enhancing fungal genetic resources globally. These new entries provide unique genomic data, potentially revealing valuable traits, resolving taxonomic ambiguities within Trichoderma, and improving the reliability of the NCBI database for future studies.
Methoxyfenozide as a potent insect growth regulator: Disruption of growth, development and chitin synthesis in Aedes aegypti for sustainable vector control
Full text linkAedes aegypti is a major vector of arboviral diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever. Traditional chemical insecticides have led to widespread insecticide resistance and posed risks to non-target organisms and the environment. Insect growth regulators (IGRs) offer a promising alternative by disrupting mosquito development rather than inducing immediate lethality. The present study evaluated the efficacy of methoxyfenozide, a non-steroidal ecdysteroid agonist, in disrupting the development and chitin synthesis of Ae. aegypti larvae to explore its potential as a mosquito control agent. Larvicidal activity, inhibition of adult emergence, and effects on chitin synthesis were assessed using standard bioassays and biochemical quantification techniques. Lethal concentrations and emergence inhibition dosages were determined using probit analysis. Methoxyfenozide exhibited dose-dependent larvicidal activity, with respective LC50 and LC90 values of 6.326 mg/L and 115.615 mg/L after 24 hours, and 4.180 mg/L and 119.100 mg/L after 48 hours, indicating a delayed action. The compound significantly inhibited adult emergence (p < 0.05), exhibiting an IE90 value of 1.209 mg/L. Morphological abnormalities, such as arrested moulting and structural deformities, were also observed. Biochemical analysis revealed a substantial reduction in chitin content in methoxyfenozide-treated larvae, with a greater decrease observed after longer treatment durations and at higher dosages. The study revealed that methoxyfenozide effectively disrupted Ae. aegypti development, inhibited both larval survival and adult emergence, as well as impeded chitin content deposition. The effective mode of action and minimal toxicity to non-target species highlight its potential for inclusion in integrated vector management strategies.
Modelling the spatial distribution of drought effects on land degradation in the Blue Nile Region, Sudan
Full text linkLand degradation (LD) has a significant impact on Sudan\u27s economy, society, and environment, driven by both climatic variations and human activities. Quantifying this degradation and its link to land use change (LUC) in Sudan\u27s semiarid regions is crucial but often overlooked. The study provides precise spatiotemporal data to evaluate and model the impact of drought on land degradation in Sudan\u27s Blue Nile Region. Four cloud-free Landsat images (1993, 2003, 2013, and 2023) were used and downloaded from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) repository. The study integrated vegetation indices (VIs) (NDVI, SARVI, SAVI, VHI) and soil indices (SIs) (BSI, TGSI) to assess LD. Change detection matrices estimated spatiotemporal land use and degradation shifts. Correlation and modeling (Kriging) determined relationships and causes of LD. Model validation was through the use of the coefficient of determination (R2), , Kappa coefficient, and principal component analysis. SIs and VIs effectively detected LD. Very severe and severe degradation increased by 15.8% and 23.3%. Conversely, non and non-light-degraded areas decreased to 27% and 16.2%, respectively. Moderately degraded areas increased by 2.5% and 1.7%. The study revealed positive correlations between (TGSI, NDVI, VHI), with R2 of 0.99, 0.98, respectively, and negative correlations between (BSI, NDVI, SAVI) with R2 of -0.92 and -0.89. The Kriging model showed reasonable performance with an R2 of 0.52, Kappa coefficients of 72%, and PC1 and PC2 capturing 78% of the variance. This work provides a robust, low-cost approach for predicting soil degradation via vegetation, especially valuable for semiarid regions. The integrated methodology and validation offer a reliable tool for environmental monitoring and management.
Sustainable management of Urban river ecosystem services: A systematic literature review on community engagement and environmental behavior in Indonesia
Full text linkRivers play a pivotal role in providing essential ecosystem services and natural resources that are crucial for both human and ecological well-being. However, inappropriate exploitation of river ecosystems can jeopardize their ability to deliver these services, posing significant risks to human welfare and environmental sustainability in the future. Therefore, restoring degraded river ecosystems is crucial to ensuring the sustainability of environmental provisions to meet current and future demands. In urban settings, rivers hold particular significance in maintaining the sustainability of water resources. Batang Arau, a major river flowing through the heart of Padang City, Indonesia. serves as a critical resource supporting various community needs and activities. The river provides essential ecosystem services, including raw water for the municipal water supply (PDAM), as well as support for bathing, washing, sanitation, agriculture, and livestock. Additionally, its estuary supports vital transportation services, functioning as an inter-island shipping port on the West Coast of West Sumatra. This study employs a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology, reviewing scholarly articles from Google Scholar, Elsevier, and ScienceDirect. The TCCM (Theory, Context, Characteristics, and Methodology) framework was used to classify research and identify knowledge gaps, thereby paving the way for future research directions. Sustainable management of the river\u27s ecosystem services can be achieved through a sociocultural assessment approach, emphasizing environmental behavior via the New Ecological Paradigm (NEP), and an economic approach through Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES). These strategies can inform policies and programs that mitigate environmental degradation by actively involving community participation.
Fly ash induced lipid peroxidation in the fish Cirrhinus mrigala
Full text linkCoal fly ash (CFA), is a byproduct of coal combustion in a thermal power plant, as well as industrial solid waste. Its improper disposal causes environmental, ecological, and human health risks. In aquatic systems, fly ash contamination leads to the bioaccumulation of metals, oxidative stress, tissue damage and threats to biodiversity. The consumption of contaminated food poses a hazard to the food chain. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate fly ash induced lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the fish Cirrhinus mrigala. To assess the toxicity of CFA, collected from the dumping station of Solapur Super Thermal Power Station, located at village Fatatewadi and Aherwadi, District: Solapur, fish were exposed to three concentrations (1 g/L, 3 g/L, and 5 g/L) for both acute (4 days) and chronic (30 days) durations, along with a control group. The MDA level was measured in the liver, gills, intestine, and muscles for both acute and chronic time. The MDA levels were increased significantly with increasing CFA concentrations. In all the organs, MDA level significantly increased in both acute and chronic durations. The highest MDA level was observed in the gills and the lowest activity was noticed in the intestine for both acute and chronic exposure. This concludes that CFA contamination induces oxidative stress and toxicity in freshwater fish, highlighting its potential impact on aquatic life.