bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Environmental Effects of Urbanization in Monrovia
Authors: Thomas George S. , Liu Ying , Mwanga Nachael
Published: July 2024

Monrovia, the capital city of Liberia, is undergoing rapid urbanization, leading to significant ecological and environmental challenges. This study aims to investigate the temporal and spatial changes in urbanization and their impact on the ecological environment in Monrovia from 2015 to 2023. Utilizing Landsat satellite images, OpenStreetMap data, and AQICN atmospheric particulate data (PM2.5 and PM10). We analyzed urban patterns, building dynamics, traffic networks, and population growth. Our methodological approach involved spatial analysis and temporal comparisons to assess land use changes and their ecological consequences. Our findings indicate substantial land use changes, with a notable increase in residential areas at the expense of natural and agricultural lands, resulting in habitat fragmentation and biodiversity loss. Economic growth in the central business district has exacerbated ecological degradation, while expanded road networks have increased surface runoff and habitat fragmentation. Air quality analysis shows rising levels of PM2.5 and PM10, posing significant health risks to residents. Additionally, the reduction in water bodies and forest cover has degraded water quality and heightened flood risks. This study underscores the urgent need for sustainable urban planning practices, including the adoption of renewable energy sources, emission control technologies, and enhanced air quality monitoring. Furthermore, community-based approaches and citizen science activities are essential for engaging local residents in pollution monitoring and advocacy, fostering partnerships for the sustainable development of Monrovia. Our research highlights the critical need for integrated strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of urbanization on the environment and public health.
Preparing the Physical Fitness of Students in the Teaching of Physical Education at Tan Trao University
Authors: Quoc Luc Hung
Published: July 2024

Cultivating the comprehensive development of students, including both professional knowledge and personal character, has been a longstanding priority in Vietnamese higher education. In this context, physical education (PE) plays a vital role, serving as a means to prepare students' physical fitness and promote their overall health - an essential foundation for the future leaders of the nation. At Tan Trao University, the importance of developing students' physical fitness within PE instruction has been recognized and emphasized. 
This study examines the strategies and outcomes of preparing the physical fitness of students in the teaching of physical education at Tan Trao University. Drawing on a rigorous review of the university's curricula, teaching practices, and student assessment data, the research delves into the multifaceted approaches employed to enhance students' physical conditioning, including targeted fitness assessments, personalized training programs, and the integration of innovative pedagogical methods. 
The findings reveal a marked improvement in students' cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and overall wellness, contributing to their enhanced academic performance and well-rounded personal development. Furthermore, the study highlights the institutional commitment to fostering a campus culture that prioritizes physical activity and healthy lifestyles, serving as a model for other Vietnamese universities aspiring to produce well-rounded graduates. 
The insights gained from this investigation provide valuable guidance for educators and policymakers in strengthening the delivery of physical education and optimizing the holistic development of students in higher education settings. The study's comprehensive approach and impactful outcomes underscore the crucial role of physical fitness preparation in shaping the next generation of leaders and active citizens.
Assessing Challenges of Enforcing Water Pollution Control Regulations on “Small Business Enterprises and, Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Activities” in the Developing Countries: Zimbabwe Perspective
Authors: Ndiweni Kwanele , Seif Salum Kamota
Published: July 2024

Economic paradigm shift from large scale activities to small-scale activities evolving in Zimbabwe, has resulted in emergence of unique wastewater generating sources, characterized by large numbers and ability to be nomadic, moving from one location to another, leading to the phenomena of shifting water pollution sources. This assessment found how challenging implementation of water pollution control legislation for regulatory authorities is, due to absence of ‘economies of scale referencing’ in the legislation which primarily had been drafted for large scale economic activities. Small business entities find it difficult to apply and pay for pollution fees as the legislation currently consider wastewater generators similarly, without factoring in production scales. Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) evade water control regulations by installing illegal discharge channels which are easily concealed to regulators and some resort to night operations to avoid scrutiny. Lack of appropriate and affordable technology for small scale wastewater treatment, is another hinderance to successful implementation of water pollution control regulations. Highly, spaced pollution sites of MSME affect the ability of regulatory authorities to visit all sites and carryout effective monitoring for adherence to water pollution control legislation. Zimbabwe, to achieve halving water pollution as envisaged by Sustainable Development Goal (SDG6) need to cover all sources of water pollution by empowering the small enterprises sector by availing financial incentives for development of low-cost wastewater treatment technologies for use by this sector.
Analysing Strategies used by Teachers in the English Reading Instruction for Grade Three Deaf and Hard of Hearing Learners at Selected Special Needs Schools in Lusaka District, Zambia
Authors: Banda Ngoza Joseph , Mwanza David Sani
Published: July 2024

This paper sought to analyze the pedagogic strategies teachers used to teach grade three deaf and hard of hearing learners to read English language. The objective of the study was to analyze pedagogic strategies teachers use in the English reading instruction for deaf and hard of hearing children at selected special needs schools in Lusaka district, Zambia. This research adopted two learning theories, which included constructivism and multimodality theory. As a descriptive qualitative research design, data was collected through semi-structured interviews and classroom lesson observations. The study sample consisted of seven (7) teachers and twenty-five (25) pupils totaling to thirty-two (32) respondents. To analyze the data thematic analysis was used. The findings established that teachers teaching deaf and hard of hearing learners reading in English employed a number of strategies in their reading instruction. The pedagogic strategies included picture reading, picture and word matching, lip reading, repeated class reading, fingerspelling, look and say, storytelling, translanguaging, sandwiching, interactive whole class reading, role play, language games, demonstration, miming, letter or word matching, question and answer, teaching using concrete or real objects and teaching learners Zambian sign language. The study concluded that while relevant strategies were used, teachers needed more capacity building in teaching deaf learners. The study therefore recommended refresher courses for in-service teachers in inclusive education practices.
Slacker II: archiving information from a Slack workspace
Authors: Royle Stephen
Published: July 2024

I wrote previously about how to archive a Slack workspace. Well, now Slack announced a new policy, effective from August 26th, 2024. Under the new policy, messages and files older than one year in workspaces on the free tier will be

deleted

. This is in addition to the 90 day limit for viewing content in the workspace. This causes a problem with the solution I outlined previously.
Wiederfunde der Kleinen Hufeisennase Rhinolophus hipposideros (Bechstein, 1800) nach 30 Jahren in Luxemburg
Authors: Gessner Birgit , Utesch Markus , Harbusch Christine
Published: July 2024

The lesser horseshoe bat, last seen in Luxembourg in the winter of 1992, has been listed as extinct on the Red List since 2002. However, following the reopening of the entrance of an ironmine near Lasauvage (Minette), close to the French border, acoustic monitoring detected the species on six occasions between September and October 2022. Further studies in 2023 and 2024 near to Lasauvage in Fond de Gras revealed the use of this site at least as migrating corridor and hibernation in the old mines is very likely. These discoveries represent the first evidence of the lesser horseshoe bat in Luxembourg since 30 years.
The far from miserable flora of the muddy banks downstream the “Misère” forebay of the Upper-Sûre lake in Luxembourg.
Authors: Wolff Jean-Paul , Hans Florian , Krippel Yves ,   Naturpark Öewersauer
Published: July 2024

A recent survey of the muddy banks of the Upper-Sûre reservoir in Luxembourg led to the discovery of a considerable number of rare vascular plants and bryophytes as well as several insufficiently documented habitats for Luxembourg. Bidens radiata is newly listed for Luxembourg – locally occurring on gravel banks –, Leersia oryzoides has rarely been recorded in Luxembourg, while Panicum barbipulvinatum has only been observed once in 2005. Riccia cavernosa, Riccia huebeneriana and Physcomitrium sphaericum are among the bryological peculiarities. After the water receded, we observed an explosive spread of the uncommon alga Botrydium granulatum, covering large areas with its green globules. The muddy banks are a habitat for specific plant communities with many rare and protected species. Unfortunately, national legislation omits to protect this FFH Annex I habitat “3270 Rivers with muddy banks with Chenopodion rubri p.p. and Bidention p.p. vegetation”.
Floristic composition and phytosociology of various forage-based land-use systems in the Himalayas over an altitudinal gradient
Authors: Bhutia P. L. , Gupta B. , Yadav R. P. , Bhutia K. G. , Yadav Devideen , Langlentombi Leishangthem Chanu
Published: July 2024

Systematic sampling method was used to study ground vegetation diversity and phytosociology of chir pine silvipasture (SPCP), mixed-trees silvipasture (SPM), ban oak silvipasture (SPBO) and grasslands (Gr) in the western Himalaya, India along an altitudinal gradient viz., E1 (< 850 m), E2 (851–1150 m), E3 (1151–1450 m), E4 (1451–1750 m) and E5 (>1751 m). Ground vegetation belonging to 36 families, 106 genera, and 122 species were recorded, of which 68.85% of species belong to herbs and 31.15% belong to shrubs. Shannon-Wiener and Shannon evenness indices varied from 1.51 (Gr at E2) to 2.86 (SPM at E5), 0.46 (Gr at E2) to 0.80 (SPM at E4), for herbs; 1.91 (Gr at E1) to 2.78 (SPM at E5), 0.79 (SPCP at E1) to 0.92 (SPM at E3), for shrubs, respectively. The density and basal area of herbs were higher in grassland as compared to silvipasture systems, while it was vice-versa in the case of shrubs. These phytosociological characteristics of herbs and shrubs typically declined with elevation in all the land-use systems. Thus, silvipasture systems showed higher ground species diversity than grasslands. The phytosociological parameters of herbs were better in grasslands as compared to silvipastures. However, shrubs showed better growth parameters under silvipasture systems as compared to grasslands.
Effects of exclosures on mountain grassland floristic composition in Sidama, Ethiopia
Authors: Debeko Denbeshu , Angassa Ayana , Mengistu Solomon , Tolera Adugna
Published: July 2024

This study was conducted to assess the effects of exclosure on mountain grassland’s species composition, richness, diversity and dominance in Sidama, Southern Ethiopia. Locally established exclosures aged between 10 and 12 years old were compared against adjacent open-grazed areas in Mollona-Meno Kebele for this study. The study was replicated at four sites. An exclosure was paired with adjacent open-grazed lands having a similar land area and slope. Both in the exclosures and adjacent open-grazed lands, 87 and 86 plant species were recorded, representing 20 families, respectively. A significantly higher difference was observed between exclosures and adjacent open-grazed lands in terms of herbaceous species abundance, diversity, evenness and density. Higher herbaceous species’ important value index (IVI) was recorded inside exclosures than in the open-grazed lands. The results suggested that the establishment of exclosures on degraded lands could support the restoration of degraded native herbaceous species which consequently enhanced ecosystem services.
Agroforestry area mapping using medium resolution satellite data and object-based image analysis
Authors: Varshitha M. , Chaitanya T. , Neelima T. L. , Jayasree G.
Published: July 2024

Agroforestry is gaining increased attention within global policy processes and has been promoted as a strategy for working towards better food security, climate change adaptation and mitigation and livelihood resilience. With this gaining importance of agroforestry, site-specific studies are required to delineate different agroforestry systems and estimate the exact area under agroforestry. In this study remote sensing and GIS techniques were used for the estimation of area under agroforestry using medium-resolution satellite (sentinel 2A and 2B) data. Agroforestry area classification and estimation were done in e-Cognition developer software (10.0 version) through multiresolution segmentation and object-based image analysis (OBIA). The agroforestry area estimated in the erstwhile Warangal district was 3753 ha with an overall accuracy of 86% and a kappa coefficient of 0.84. The major agroforestry systems observed in the erstwhile Warangal district were eucalyptus, subabul, malabar neem, teak, sandalwood and red sanders.
Genetic diversity studies in local collections and advanced generations of lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) genotypes for fodder yield and yield-attributing traits
Authors: S. K Vinodkumar , Sridhar K. , Deshpande S. K. , Kulkarni N. S.
Published: July 2024

Precise information about genetic divergence is vital for a productive breeding program, as genetically diverse parents produce high heterotic effects, producing desirable segregants with higher yield levels. This study assessed seventy genotypes and four checks to estimate the extent of genetic diversity based on ten morphological traits attributed to yield. The genotypes showed significant differences for all the traits considered. Based on the Mahalanobis D2 statistics, the genotypes were grouped into ten clusters, with cluster I having the maximum number of genotypes, whereas cluster IX had a single genotype. The average inter-cluster distances revealed that the genotypes in clusters VI and VII were more diverse. In contrast, clusters I and III genotypes had the shortest inter-cluster distances, indicating genetic closeness. The study revealed a broad genotypic diversity within and between the alfalfa germplasm collections. The genotypes in clusters I, III, and V provide excellent genetic material for alfalfa yield improvement. They offer a possible way to exploit the existing variability to develop superior populations or composites
Deciphering the genetic architecture of β-glucan content in oats (Avena sativa L.) through QTL mapping
Authors: Kaur Gagandeep , Kapoor Rahul , Pal Lalit , Srivastava Puja , Sharma Priti
Published: July 2024

Oat is a cereal grain grown for human and animal nutrition. It is known for its high dietary fibre content, phytochemicals, and nutritional value. The primary component of oat fibre is β-glucan, a group of polysaccharides comprising mixed-linkage (1,3) (1,4)-D-glucose units. The β-glucan concentrations of oat cultivars usually range from 3 to 6% and are considered a polygenic trait controlled by multiple genes with additive effects. The primary goal of this study was to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for β-glucan content. Two contrasting parents for β-glucan content, OL10 (5.8%) and OL11 (0.8%), were selected from 91 germplasm lines, and an F2:4 mapping population was generated for QTL mapping. Five genotypes with the highest levels of β-glucan content were observed. The QTLs affecting β-glucan content were identified using QTL cartographer, employing single marker analysis (SMA) and composite interval mapping (CIM). Two putative QTL regions were identified, one on linkage group (LG) 1 and the other on LG 4, with LOD (logarithm of the odds) scores of 3.7 and 4.3, respectively, explaining 31 and 33% of the phenotypic variation. The information generated is important in identifying the genomic regions responsible for β-glucan content in oats.
GGE biplot and AMMI analysis for stability and adaptability of dual-purpose maize hybrids tested across multi-environments for baby corn and fodder yield
Authors: Yathish, K.R  , Kumar Santosh , Rao T Vasanth , Kumar Pardeep , M Karthik , Das Abhijith Kumar , G K Chikkappa , Singh Preethi , Mahantha S K , Sekhar J C , Bhushan Bharath , Jat B.S. , Rakshit Sujay
Published: July 2024

Meeting the growing demand for baby corn necessitates the development of dual-purpose hybrids that are both high-yielding and genetically stable. Accordingly, the present study aimed for multi-location testing of twelve newly crossed elite baby corn hybrids along with one check CMVL BABY CORN-2 across four environments during Rabi 2021-22. Analysis of variance underscored the significant impact of genetic (G), environmental (E), and their interaction (GE) on all traits under study. The environment was the most important source of variation for all the traits, followed by G (3.37–10.51%) and GE (1.03–2.77). The first two principal components explained 88.48, 87.52 and 76.03% of the total variation for DS, BCY and GFY, respectively. Environmental evaluation classified locations into three distinct mega-environments viz. ME I encompassed Hyderabad and Hazaribagh, and ME II and III were represented solely by Ludhiana and Varanasi, respectively. Based on the GGE biplot and AMMI analysis, genotypes T9 and T11 exhibited superior performance and stability across multiple locations over the check for both BCY and GFY traits.
Parent-offspring regression and intergeneration correlation analysis in powdery mildew resistance derived F4 and F5 generations of oat
Authors: Kumari Jyoti , Sood V.K. , Kumar Sawan , Sanadya S.K. , Priyanka  , Sood Rhitisha
Published: July 2024

The present investigation was undertaken to determine the intergeneration correlation and parent-offspring regression in F4 and F5 generations of seven different oat crosses which were grown during Rabi 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively, at Experimental Farm of Fodder Section, CSKHPKV, Palampur. Correlation studies revealed a negative correlation between crude protein yield per plant with grain yield per plant in F5 generation and a positive correlation between fresh fodder yield per plant and dry matter yield per plant in both generations, revealing crude protein yield as major forage yield component. F4 generation progenies showed highly significant and positive values of intergeneration correlation and regression with F5 generation progenies for grain yield per plant, crude protein yield per plant, harvest index and number of tillers per plant in most of the crosses, which indicated that the performance of plants on the basis of these traits is a reliable indicator of their performance in subsequent generations. Narrow sense heritability increased with the advancement of generation from F4 to F5, indicating the additivity of gene effects for the traits such as grain yield per plant, 100-grain weight, harvest index and crude protein yield per plant. Two progenies P4-5-2 -5 and P4-5-2-8 of the cross HJ-8 × JPO-46 were resistant to powdery mildew disease in F5 generation and the number of resistant plants was more in F5 generation over F4 generation which showed the efficiency of selection for resistance to powdery mildew.
Physiological adaptations of lucerne under a limited irrigation system
Authors: Antony Edna , Kumar Sateesh , Sridhar K. , Karthigeyan S. , Kulkarni N.S. , Doddamani M.B.
Published: July 2024

A field study was conducted to identify the physiological tolerance mechanism of lucerne to limited irrigations. Lucerne needs irrigation once in 10 days. So, limited irrigation treatment was imposed once every 25 days. In the initial part of the experiment, accessions collected from the western part of India were screened for biomass potential under limited irrigation in an augmented RBD design. Accessions that performed well under these conditions were grown under temporal isolation, and seeds were collected. In the second part, a field experiment was conducted at SRRS, ICAR-IGFRI, Dharwad, from December 2018 to March 2020 to screen lucerne accessions under limited irrigation to identify the physiological and morphological characters that are required to impart tolerance in lucerne under the cut and carry limited irrigation system. An RBD design was adopted to screen 12 lucerne accessions under limited and full irrigated conditions. Accessions that maintained good persistence under limited irrigation also performed significantly (Acc38/2010, Acc23/2010, A2) regarding yield. Persistence during the juvenile phase depended on conductance, osmotic adjustment and antioxidant capacity. Accessions showed a constant increase in the number of branches after each harvest under limited irrigation was promising in yield performance. Specific-leaf weight (SLW), crude protein, conductance, increased number of branches, and persistence were significantly and positively correlated with yield.
Integrated physiological and molecular approaches to study salt-induced adaptation in halophytes collected from extremely saline lands
Authors: Kumar Ashwani , Kumar Arvind , Kumar Naresh , Meena B. L. , Mann Anita
Published: July 2024

Diverse halophytes were collected across the extremely salt-affected lands of Haryana to explore their salt potential. Higher levels of Na+ and Cl- were observed in leaves (3.20 and 4.55%) than in stem (0.78 and 1.09%) and root (0.81 and 0.80 %). Interestingly, these plants also accumulated higher concentrations of K+ for their survival. Similarly, Ca2+ accumulation was higher in leaves (1.57%) than in stems (1.15%) and roots (1.18%). The salt tolerance potential of these halophytes was assessed by examining the ratio of accumulation of toxic ions, namely Na/K, Na/Ca, and Na+Cl to K+Ca, resulting in their characterization and ranking from highly salt tolerant to least tolerant. The utilization of this ionic accumulation index has the potential to serve as a criterion for the elimination of surplus toxic ions from soil. The halophytes employed adaptive mechanisms by synthesizing osmolytes, such as proline, soluble sugars, and soluble proteins, in both leaves and roots. The upregulation of genes P5CS and NHX1, responsible for proline synthesis and membrane transportation, further confirmed the halophytes’ ability to tolerate high salinity. The findings of these studies indicated the potential for domesticating salt-tolerant halophytes in salt-affected soils.
Effect of potassic fertilization on yield of fodder sorghum-sudan grass hybrid and selection of extractants for determination of plant potassium availability
Authors: Paul Subhadip , Barman Mandira , Das Debarup
Published: July 2024

The current study was carried out to assess the effect of potassium (K) fertilization on K-uptake and yield of fodder sorghum-sudan grass hybrid and to choose extractant(s), delineating the K-availability for routine soil testing method. Hybrid sorghum-Sudan grasses were grown in three different soils (red, alluvial, and black) with 100, 50, and 0% recommended K-doses for five seasons. Seven extractants, namely, cold H2SO4, Mehlich-1, 0.1 N CH3COONa, 1 N CH3COONH4 (pH 7), 0.1 N BaCl2, and sodium tetraphenylborate (NaTPB) with 5 and 15 minutes of contact times, were evaluated for elucidating forage K-availability. Results have revealed that biomass yields from all soils were higher (p < 0.05) in K-100% than in K-0%; whereas NaTPB (5 minutes) and ammonium acetate were found as better extractants for the determination of forage K-availability.
Effect of different nutrient management practices on productivity, profitability and nutrient dynamics in forage-based cropping systems under mid-hill conditions of north-western Himalayas
Authors: Kumari Priyanka , Kumar Naveen
Published: July 2024

A field experiment was conducted at the research farm of Fodder Section, CSKHPKV, Palampur, from Kharif 2018 to Rabi 2019-20 to study the effect of different nutrient management practices in forage-based cropping systems. Ten nutrient management practices in two cropping systems were tested in randomized block design with three replications. Integrated nutrient management, i.e., 50% recommended N + 10 t/ha FYM + 10% Jeevamrit and 50% recommended N+ 10 t/ha FYM + 5% Jeevamrit and recommended NPK behaving alike resulted in higher oat green fodder equivalent yield, nutrient uptake (N, P and K) and system productivity of sorghum + pearl millet - oat + sarson/wheat cropping systems. An increase in soil organic carbon content was observed with integrated nutrient management (50% recommended N + 10 t/ha FYM + Jeevamrit) and organic nutrient management (10 t/ha FYM + Jeevamrit) over the initial status at the end of sorghum + pearl millet - oat + sarson/wheat cropping systems. Integrated nutrient management improved available soil nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium contents over the initial values. Significantly higher available soil nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium contents were recorded with integrated nutrient management as well as with recommended NPK through inorganic sources over other treatments comprised of organic and natural farming systems of nutrition in both the cropping systems. Recommended NPK proved most profitable with the highest net returns and benefit-cost ratio in sorghum + pearl millet - oat + sarson/wheat cropping systems. Sorghum + pearl millet - oat + sarson cropping system comprised of all fodder crops resulted in higher productivity and profitability but did not increase soil available nutrient status as compared to sorghum + pearl millet - wheat cropping system comprised of fodder as well as grain crops.
Performance of bajra napier hybrid under varying levels and frequency of MgSO4 nutrition in humid tropics
Authors: Navya M. V. , Thomas Usha C. , Agrawal R. K. , Singh Nagendra
Published: July 2024

A field experiment was conducted at AICRP on Forage Crops and Utilization, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, to assess the influence of varying levels and frequency of MgSO4 application on the performance of bajra napier hybrid during the period October 2020-September 2021. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design (FRBD) with nine treatments and a control replicated thrice. The treatment combinations included three levels of magnesium [m1: 80 kg ha-1, m2: 100 kg ha-1 and m3: 120 kg ha-1] and three frequencies of application [f1: Split application once in 6 months, f2: Split application once in 4 months and f3: Split application once in 3 months] and a control treatment. Considering the performance of bajra napier hybrid, varying levels and frequencies of MgSO4 application had a significant influence on the growth, yield, biochemical and quality attributes as well as the soil nutrient status after the conduct of the experiment and economics of cultivation. Interaction effect of the treatment combinations revealed higher tiller count (27.07), leaf: stem ratio (1.99), green fodder yield (GFY) (1891.30 q ha-1), dry fodder yield (DFY) (473.00 q ha-1), crude protein content (10.06 %) and benefit-cost ratio (2.11) with split application of 100 kg ha-1 MgSO4 once in 6 months.
Enhancing productivity, profitability and land use efficiency of fodder oats (Avena sativa L.) and berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) by intercropping
Authors: Arif Mohd. , Kumar Arvind , Pourouchottamane R. , Gupta D. L. , Rai B.
Published: July 2024

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi season of 2020-21 at ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, to study the effect of different intercropping row ratios on yield, intercropping indices and economics of fodder oats and berseem. The experiment consists of nine treatments viz., sole oats, sole berseem, oats + berseem (1:1 row ratio), oats + berseem (2:1 row ratio), oats + berseem (1:2 row ratio), oats + berseem (2:2 row ratio), oats + berseem (3:1 row ratio), oats + berseem (1:3 row ratio), oats + berseem (3:3 row ratio). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications. Results of the study revealed that maximum values of total green fodder yield (66.70 t ha-1), land equivalent ratio (1.32), monetary advantage index (12411), total phosphorus uptake (22.04 kg ha-1), net return (Rs 51307 ha-1) and benefit: cost ratio (2.33) were recorded with 2:1 row ratio of oats + berseem intercropping combination. However, the maximum value of total nitrogen (178.33 kg ha-1) and potassium (208.84 kg ha-1) uptake was recorded by sole cropping of berseem, which was at par with 2:1 row ratio of oats + berseem intercropping combination. It was concluded that two rows oats + one row of berseem (2:1) intercropping combination performed best in terms of yield, land use efficiency and profitability of fodder oats and berseem.
Orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata L.) yield and nutritive characteristics in response to different cutting regimes in a temperate region
Authors: Mir Nazim Hamid , Ahmad Suheel , Bhat Sheeraz Saleem
Published: July 2024

The present study was carried out at the Research Farm of Regional Research Station, ICAR-IGFRI, Rangreth, Srinagar, to evaluate three harvesting stages and three cutting intervals for achieving higher fodder yield and quality in orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata L). Among the harvesting stages, H3 (harvesting at the flowering stage) recorded the highest green (27.04 t/ha) and dry(8.05 t/ha) fodder yield. Among the cutting intervals, CI 3 (cutting at 60-day intervals) recorded higher fresh and dry biomass yield. Fodder yield increased with harvesting at later stages and increased cutting intervals. The highest crude protein content (11.87%), lowest NDF (55.87%) and ADF (31.65%) contents were recorded when grass was harvested at the vegetative stage. Digestible dry matter (DDM) varied significantly with both harvesting stage and cutting interval and was found to be highest with H1 (64.23%) and CI 1 (63.54%). The highest relative feed value (RFV) of 106.92% and highest total digestible nutrients (TDN) of 65.68% were found in the orchard grass cut at the vegetative stage (H1), which was at par with orchard grass harvested first at the booting stage (H2). Harvesting at both vegetative and booting stages resulted in good quality (RFV >103%) and energy-rich (TDN> 65%) forage. Harvesting at the flowering stage resulted in fair quality (RFV 96.67% and TDN 63.65%) fodder.
Proximate principles and total phenolic content of Melia dubia Cav. leaf varies across altitudinal gradients in South Gujarat
Authors: Malek S. S. , Thakur N. S. , Patel V. R. , Gunaga R. P. , Garde Y. A.
Published: July 2024

Five Melia dubia populations were identified through altitudinal gradient (12, 64, 253, 341 and 381 m msl) and four individuals from each population were selected following the selective sampling method through the subjective judgment of the observer. Leaf samples were collected in the winter season of 2020-21 from all the locations. Substantial variations (p <0.05) were recorded in proximate principles and the total phenolic contents in M. dubia leaf fodder along an altitudinal gradient. Crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE) and crude fibre (CF) content were significantly maximum at the highest altitude site (Dinbari; 381 m msl) with values of 10.14, 3.23 and 16.81%, respectively. The maximum ash content (15.68%) was recorded in leaf samples collected from Nanapondha (64 m). Conversely, the highest OM (87.53%) was recorded from Mahal (253 m). Acid in soluble ash was recorded maximum (1.27%) in Mulchond, located at 341 m altitude. Leaf nitrogen-free extract was highest (29.83%) at the lowest altitude (12.00 m), i.e., Navsari population and lowest (57.28%) at the highest altitude of Dinbari (381.00 m). Total phenolic content was maximum [102.28 GAE mg/g (10.22%)] in M. dubia leaf samples of the Navsari population, representing the lowest altitude. The study revealed that most of the proximate principles were higher for populations located at higher altitudes. The hierarchical cluster analysis indicated that among all the five populations, the Dinbari population was found to be more diverse in terms of proximate principles of leaf fodder than others that might be used for further selection and improvement.
Quality and production potential of green fodder and silage for kharif maize hybrid under rainy season in Punjab
Authors: Hundal Jaspal Singh , Kumar Pardeep , Brar Navjot Singh , Choudhary Mukesh , Sharma Amit , Rakshit Sujay
Published: July 2024

A field study was carried out at Ladhowal Research Farm of ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research, Ludhiana, with the objective of finding out the best planting density and sowing date for kharif maize hybrid to maximize green fodder yield and quality silage production. The treatments consisted of two plant densities, i.e., normal density (ND; 60×20 cm) and high density (HD; 60×10 cm), with four dates of sowings in RBD factorial design with three replications. The hybrid PMH 1 sown in mid-July was comparatively superior to other sowing dates at both plant densities. However, yield ND had an edge over HD. Higher biological yield (611.1 q/ha) (p <0.001) and dry matter yield (205.3 q/ha) were reported for ND plots sown in mid-July. The dry matter (DM) content of forage varied (p <0.05) from 32.1 to 35.0%. Crude protein (CP) was high in early sowing and declined to a low level with advanced dates of sowing, whereas ether extract (EE) followed exactly the reverse trend. The dry matter intake and digestible dry matter values were significantly (p <0.001) higher in mid-July sowing. Silages prepared exhibited good ensiling characteristics for all dates of sowing and plant densities. However, mid-July sowing exhibited the lowest values with respect to neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber, with improved nutritive profile, better feeding values, higher in-vitro potential and good fermentation characteristics. Based on this study it was concluded that mid-July sown hybrid PMH 1 had high yield, feed value, NGP as well as NDF digestibility compared to other dates of sowing.
Floral diversity and nutritional value of forages in Pulikulam cattle breeding tract
Authors: Srinivasan G. , Chinnamani Valli , Chellapandian M. , Leela V. , Sathiamoorthy T. , Arunachalam A.
Published: July 2024

Documenting the floral diversity in the Pulikulam cattle breeding tract (Sivaganga, Madurai and Virudhunagar districts in Tamil Nadu) and the nutrient content of predominant forages were important for maintaining Pulikulam cattle under zero input grazing system of management. Hence, a study was carried out to document the forage biomass, botanical composition, and nutritional profile of the forages present in the Pulikulam cattle breeding tract. The number of edible forage species other than shrubs and trees documented in the grazing tract at Sivaganga, Madurai and Virudhunagar districts was 10, 8 and 9, respectively. Pennisetum clandestinum recorded significantly (p <0.05) highest biomass (133.25, 148.25 and 115 g/m2) and botanical composition (31.32, 34.99, and 26.31%) in all the districts. Variability was observed in proximate principles, fiber fractions and mineral contents between forages. Zinc was not detectable in Aristida setacea and both zinc and copper were not in detectable levels in Echinochloa colona.
Effect of supplementation of berseem hay meal as replacer of mustard cake protein on nutrient intake, utilization and growth performance in Jalauni lambs
Authors: Das M. M. , Singh Sultan , Singh K. K. , Sharma P. , Chand Khem
Published: July 2024

Berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum) hay meal (BHM) as a replacement for mustard cake (MSC) in the ration of growing Jalauni lambs was studied. About 15 Jalauni male lambs (23.25 ± 1.2 kg) were randomly distributed into three groups of five each in an experiment based on a randomized block design and were randomly assigned to one of the three dietary treatments. The animals were fed control concentrate mixture (GI) or concentrate mixtures in which 60% N of mustard cake was replaced with BHM containing 0.75% NPN (GII) or 1.0% NPN (GIII) making them iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric. Gram straw (GS) was offered ad libitum to all the animals. Total dry matter intake (DMI) was comparable among the groups. Digestibility of nutrients, namely DM, organic matter (OM), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) were non-significantly different among the groups. However, crude protein (CP) digestibility was higher in GI or GII than GIII. Rumen fermentation was not affected due to the incorporation of BHM as a replacer of mustard cake in the diet. N balance was also comparable. However, N retention as % of N absorbed was significantly (p <0.05) lower in GIII as compared to GI or GII. Nutrient content in terms of TDN or ME was similar among the experimental diets. However, DCP% was higher in GI or GII than GIII. Cost per kg live weight gain was significantly (p <0.05) lower in BHM-incorporated diets (GII or GIII) than in the control diet (GI). It was concluded that BHM can be incorporated into the diet of growing Jalauni lambs as a replacer of mustard cake for economical livestock production.
Knowledge and adoption gaps of Stylosanthes seed production practices followed by farmers of Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh
Authors: S Rama Reddy , Biradar Nagaratna , S. S Guledgudda , A Bheemappa , Tirlapur Laxmi , Gadekar Geeta , Kerur Akshata
Published: July 2024

A study was carried out to know the knowledge and adoption levels of recommended practices of Stylosanthes crop by farmers. The study was conducted in 12 randomly selected villages of 3 blocks of Anantapur district by surveying 120 farmers using a structured interview schedule. The results revealed that knowledge levels were poor for the application of fertilizers (00%), seed treatment (7.5%), top dressing (25%) and row spacing (59.17%). Correspondingly, four practices that the respondents did not adopt were use of recommended seed rate, sowing without seed treatment, not following recommended spacing and fertilizer application at the time of sowing. Herd size and the irrigated area had a positive relationship with the knowledge level of respondents. Herd size, herd composition and cropping pattern showed positive and one variable risk orientation showed a negative and significant relationship with the level of adoption of Stylosanthes seed production practices. The study thus brings out the dire need to enhance the knowledge and adoption of critical practices for enhancing seed yield and quality of Styosanthes hamata.
Productivity and quality of different rabi fodder crops under kinnow mandarin based hortipasture system
Authors: Ghasal P.C. , Ravisankar N. , Dutta D. , Nath Amit , Malik S. , Prusty A.K. , Kashyap P. , Shamim M. , Panwar A.S.
Published: July 2024

A study was conducted for the assessment of productivity and nutritive quality of different rabi fodder crops under kinnow mandarin-based horti-pasture system. Among different rabi fodder crops, higher green fodder yield was produced by berseem followed by ryegrass and lucerne under partial shade of kinnow mandarin orchard. Green fodder yield of berseem was 12.83, 14.50, 37.23 and 79.17% higher as compared to ryegrass, lucerne, oat and mustard, respectively. Due to diversity in genetic makeup, parameters of analysis vary significantly in different rabi fodder crops. Ash content (14.03%), acid insoluble ash content (3.90%), crude fiber content (48.03%) and crude fat content (3.18%) was found highest under berseem, oat, mustard and ryegrass, respectively. Fat content in ryegrass was 2.47, 4.48, 17.67 and 13.25 times higher as compared to mustard, berseem, lucerne and oat, respectively. Crude protein content was highest in lucerne (32.73%) followed by berseem (25.11%). Similarly lucerne was superior fodder crop with respect to N, Zn and Cu concentrations. Though, P, K and Fe concentration in ryegrass fodder was found higher as compared to other fodder crops.
Effect of intercropping and zinc management on weed density and fodder yield in oats
Authors: Porwal Muskan , Kantwa S.R. , Singh S.S. , Govindasamy Prabhu , Verma Badal , Ramakrishnan Srinivasan
Published: July 2024

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of intercropping and zinc application on weed density and forage yield in the Bundelkhand region during the Rabi season of 2020-2021 at the Research Farm of Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi. The experiment comprised eight treatments with sole cropping of oat (CS1) and intercropping of oat with berseem (CS2)] in the main plot and four nutrient management practices [control (NM1), recommended dose of fertilizers RDF (NM2), recommended dose of fertilizers with zinc sulfate (NM3) and recommended dose of fertilizers with nano zinc (NM4)] in sub-plots in split plot design. The results showed that the weed density (150 m-2) and weed biomass (26.1 g m-2) in CS2 was found significantly lower than CS1 (186 m-2 and 34.5 g m-2, respectively). NM4 treatment had significantly lower weed density (158 m-2) and weed biomass (25.6 g m-2) than NM3 (215 m-2 and 45.13 g m-2) and NM2 (175 m-2 and 25.6 g m-2) among nutrient management practices. Also, intercropping + RDFnZn treatment produced significantly the highest green fodder yield (57.3 t ha-1) when compared to the rest of the treatments
Nutritional evaluation and comparison of extraction processes of parota [Enterolobium cyclocarpum (Jacq.) Griseb. Mimosaceae] almonds
Authors: Mejía-Delgadillo Mario Alejandro , Valdez-Hernández María , Mendoza-Martínez German David , Torres-Salado Nicolás , Matadamas-Ortíz Pastor , Castro Azareel Angulo , Gutiérrez Luis Alaniz , LeeRangel Héctor Aaron , Nuñez Luis M.Valenzuela
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different forms of mechanical extraction and treatment on the composition and nutritional value of parota almonds. The composition of raw, cooked, roasted and sprouted almonds was analyzed. The yield of recovered seeds was evaluated by comparing it with a hammer mill or manually. Three treatments were reevaluated with the dryer designed with processing times of 15, 30 and 60 minutes at 40°C. The germinated parota had a higher protein content (39.17%) followed by crude parota almond (34.9%). Thus it was feasible to take advantage of mechanical processing of parota almond for use as a potential protein resource for animal feeding.
Berseem hay supplementation to improve productivity of Bundelkhandi goats in winter season
Authors: Upadhyay Deepak , Tamboli Pooja , Kumar Anup , Singh K. K. , Mahanta S. K.
Published: July 2024

The study was conducted to determine the effect of berseem hay supplementation on the productive performances of goats in the winter season. About 20 Bundelkhandi male goats were selected and fed either on conventional feeding (control group, n = 10) and improved diet (treatment group, n = 10). The control group fed on conventional grazing (8 hours) + conc. mixture @ 1.0% of BW while the treatment group was fed on conventional grazing (8 hours) + conc. mixture @ 1.0% of BW + quality berseem hay (300 g/head/d). The Meteorological variables, feed intake, body weight, nutrient digestibility and physiological parameters (rectal temperature, head surface temp, pulse rate, respiration rate) were measured. The climatic variable suggested that during December and January month animals were under cold stress. There was no significant difference between groups for physiological parameters. However, during peak winter, rectal and head temperatures were recorded in the lower range in both groups during the evening. The body weight gain in goats fed with the treatment diet was significantly (p <0.05) higher as compared to the control group. It was concluded that the supplementation of berseem hay (300 g/h/d) in male Bundelkhandi goats resulted in improvement in protein (8.07 vs. 10.05, g/kg W0.75) intake with a positive impact on body weight gain without any significant effect on physiological parameters during the winter season.
Vulnerability to climate change among the Changpa pastoral nomads of Leh-Ladakh
Authors: Maiti Sanjit , Garai Sanchita , Bhakat Mukesh , Kadian K. S.
Published: July 2024

Pastoral nomads of the Himalayan region are the least responsible but most threatened by climate change. Therefore, the present study was conducted to analyze vulnerability to climate change among the randomly selected 200 Changpa pastoral nomads of Leh-Ladakh. A vulnerability to climate change index was developed underlying the principle of IPCC by using 18 household-level indicators of bio-physical and societal importance. The study indicated that the average vulnerability scores of Changpa pastoral nomads were positive, which indicated their shock-absorbing capacity to extreme climatic conditions, whereas 32% of the households were extremely vulnerable. But vulnerability index score of 7.50% of households was negative, which indicated their inability to cope with the extreme climatic conditions. Hence, immediate attentions are required to formulate better adaptation strategies to improve the adaptive capacity of the vulnerable Changpa pastoral nomads to changing climate conditions.
Open radical prostatectomy and laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: perioperative comparison of the procedures
Authors: Braz Scarpa Mariano Pereira João Marco , Sábio Xavier de Camargo Luiz Fernando , Carlos Maciel Luiz , Antunes Leonardo de Oliveira , De Souza Gomes Lucas , Spada Rebechi Rafael , Barbosa Guilherme Diego de Oliveira
Published: July 2024

Radical prostatectomy is seen as one of the main methods for the treatment of prostate cancer and has been performed for more than 150 years, being considered the gold standard for the treatment of localized disease. In recent years, laparoscopic and robot-assisted access has received notoriety, with oncological results similar to the open technique associated with the benefits of the minimally invasive approach. Aim: To compare complications and perioperative complications in patients undergoing radical open prostatectomy with the laparoscopic approach. Method: This is a retrospective data analysis performed by reviewing the electronic medical records of patients diagnosed with localized prostate cancer at the Regional Hospital of Vale do Paraíba, SP, Brazil (HRVP). Data were collected regarding the procedures performed from January 2014 to December 2018, totaling 35 patients undergoing Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy and 35 patients undergoing Open Radical Prostatectomy. Intra and perioperative data were analyzed, specifically the surgical time, blood transfusion rate, type and time of drainage of the surgical site, and length of hospital stay. The data were subsequently analyzed, and the results of both techniques were compared. Results: When comparing the averages of operative times, we obtained a variation rate of 26.2%. The calculated p-value was 0.00002, demonstrating that the operative time in the open group was significantly shorter. When comparing the mean time taken to remove the drain, we observed a variation rate of 37.8%. The calculated p-value was 0.00004, this time being statistically shorter in the laparoscopy group. The other variables evaluated did not show statistical significance between the groups. Conclusion: The main advantage of an open group is that the procedure can be performed in less time. The main advantage of the laparoscopic group was the possibility of removing the drain before patients were operated on by PRA.