bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Guide to in silico Identification of miRNAs and their Targets
Authors: Radhika V , . Kanupriya , Rashmi R , Aswath C
Published: August 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are non-coding RNA molecules that play a critical role in gene regulation including translational repression in animals and mRNA cleavage in plants. MicroRNAs control various cellular, metabolic and physiological processes in living organisms. In this paper, we provide an overview on the significance of miRNA, nomenclature, their biogenesis and the pipelines for prediction of miRNA and their targets. These tools are important for identification of conserved miRNAs in crops where miRNAs have not been previously discovered. The newlyidentified miRNAs and their targets play an important role in understanding regulation of growth, development and gene silencing in various life forms.
Studies on Fruit and Yield Traits in Indigenous Coloured Varieties of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) in South Gujarat, India
Authors: Rymbai H , Patel C R , Ahlawat T R , Patel N L
Published: August 2023

An investigation on fruit descriptors and yield in twelve mango varieties was conducted under South Gujarat conditions. Maximum fruit length was recorded in cv. Totapuri (16.23cm). Vanraj showed the highest values for fruit width (11.67cm), fruit circumference (37.37cm), fruit weight (729g), fruit volume (575.59cm3) and fruit pulp (78.93%). Maximum TSS (21.20%), acidity (0.42%) and fruit firmness (7.00 rating) was observed in cvs. Deshi-1, Deshi-3 and Makaram, respectively. 'Totapuri' had maximum total shelf-life (21.33 days), number of fruits per tree (383.00) and fruit yield (236.80kg/tree). The varieties had green to yellow ground-colour of peel. All the varieties had red-blush peel colour, excepting cvs. Dadamio, Makaram and Swarnarekha which were purplish-red. Similarly, pulp colour ranged from light yellow to light orange. Based on overall performance, cvs. Alphonso, Deshi-1, Deshi-2, Kesar, Khandesi Borasio, Totapuri and Vanraj proved to be superior to the other varieties.
Effect of in situ Rainwater Harvesting and Mulching on Growth, Yield and Fruit Quality in Mango Var. Arka Neelachal Kesri in Eastern India
Authors: Samant Deepa , Mandal S , Singh H S , Nath Vishal , Kurian Reju M
Published: August 2023

A field study was conducted at Central Horticultural Experiment Station (ICAR-IIHR), Bhubaneswar, India, during 2007-2013 in a new mango orchard of the variety 'Arka Neelachal Kesri' at 5m x 5m spacing, to conserve rain-water and to enhance soil moisture availability during dry periods for augmenting plant growth and fruit production. Among the four in situ rain-water harvesting techniques (cup-and-plate, half-moon, full-moon, and trench) evaluated in combination with three types of mulch (no mulch, inorganic mulch, and organic mulch), the cup-and-plate system resulted in maximum annual increment in vegetative growth and fruit yield (4.67kg/plant), while, organic (paddy straw) and inorganic (black polythene, 100μ thickness) mulches improved vegetative growth, fruit yield and TSS in fruit significantly over no mulch.
Effect of Hormonal Treatment and Mulching on Fruit Drop and Quality in Mango
Authors: Banyal Sanjeev Kumar , Sharma Deepa
Published: August 2023

An experiment was laid out to assess the effect of hormonal treatment and mulching on fruit drop and quality in cvs. Mallika, Amrapali and Dashehari of mango at the experimental farm Bhota of IBES Neri, Hamirpur, during the years 2010-2012. Eight treatments, viz., T1&T2: 2, 4-D (20 and 40ppm), T3&T4: NAA (25 and 50ppm), T5: 2, 4-D (20ppm) + Black polythene mulch, T6:NAA (25ppm) + Black polythene mulch, T7: Black polythene mulch, and T8: Control, were applied during the last week of April at the pea stage of fruit development in the years 2011 and 2012. Observations were recorded on marked panicles at monthly intervals until harvest. All the hormonal treatments, mulching and combination thereof, showed significant reduction in fruit drop in all the three cultivars under study. Fruit retention at harvest in cvs. Amrapali, and Mallika and Dashehari was maximum (5.95, 9.5 and 8.3%, respectively) with T5 (2, 4-D 20ppm + Black polythene mulch) which was statistically at par with T1 (2, 4-D 20ppm), T7 (Black polythene mulch) and T2(2, 4-D 40ppm). Effect of treatments on TSS content was non-significant. Highest TSS content (14.5°B) was noted in cv. Dashehari which was significantly higher than in Mallika (11.7°B) or Amrapali (11.4°B). Titratable acidity was significantly low in all the treatments than that in untreated plants. Highest acidity (0.53%) was recorded in Control. 'Dashehari' recorded the highest (0.63%) acidity, followed by Mallika (0.49%) and Amrapali (0.46%).
Bio-Fortification with Iron and Manganese for Enhanced Bunch Yield in 'Robusta' Banana through Direct Nutrient-Feeding
Authors: Kotur S C
Published: August 2023

Enhancement of bunch weight together with bio-fortification with Fe and Mn was attempted in 'Robusta' banana by enriching with 0-1.25g bunch-1 each of FeSO4 (heptahydrate) and MnSO4 (monohydrate). Bunch yield and content of Fe and Mn in the pulp substantially increased by direct nutrient feeding of bunches with 7.5g each of urea and SOP besides 0.75g each of FeSO4 and MnSO4. The improved technique holds promise for combating anemia in humans by bio-fortification of banana with Fe besides supplemental Mn in diet.
Effect of Pinching and Growth Retardants on Growth and Flowering in African Marigold Cv. Pusa Narangi Gainda
Authors: Sasikumar K , Baskaran V , Abirami K
Published: August 2023

A study on the effect of pinching and application of growth retardants on growth and flowering in African marigold cv. 'Pusa Narangi Gainda' was carried out in the experimental field of Division of Floriculture and Landscaping, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. Treatments comprised pinching, CCC applied at 1000ppm, 1500ppm or 2000ppm, MH at 500ppm, 1500ppm or 2000ppm; B-9 at 500ppm, 750ppm or 1000ppm, and a Control (no pinching). CCC at 2000ppm recorded minimum plant height (46.0cm), maximum plant-spread (56.0cm) and maximum number of branches (19.0), whereas, maximum plant height (67.0cm), minimum plant-spread (29.66cm) and minimum number of branches (5.33) were recorded in Control (non-pinching). As for flowering and yield, application of CCC at 2000ppm recorded maximum flowering-duration (25.33 days), number of flowers per plant (40), single-flower weight (119.46g), flower yield per plant (408.10g), flower yield per unit area (17.83t/ha) and seed yield per plant (17.80 g), Maximum flower diameter (7.93cm) was recorded with application of CCC 2000ppm, whereas, minimum was recorded with pinching (6.2cm). Spray of growth retardants enhanced flower yield compared to that in Control (no pinching). Maximum shelf-life of flower was recorded with CCC 2000ppm (3.66 days), whereas, minimum was recorded with pinching and non-pinching (2.33 days). Thus, application of CCC at 2000ppm is superior to other treatments tested for increasing flower yield in marigold.
Antioxidant Composition of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Beverage Blended with Black-Carrot Juice
Authors: Khandare V S , Waskar D P , Kalalbandi B M , Panpatil S M
Published: August 2023

An investigation was undertaken to study guava beverage blended with black-carrot juice, during 2011-2012. Enzyme-assisted processing of guava significantly improved the juice yield, total soluble solids, titratable acidity pH, ascorbic acid and sugars by using pectinase enzyme. The blending of guava beverage with black carrot juice significantly improved the functional properties of the guava RTS. Anthocyanin and ascorbic contents of blended guava RTS with black-carrot juice decreased with advancement of storage condition and period.
In silico Analysis of whole-Genome of Solanum lycopersicum for Alpha-Crystallin Domains Associated with Heat Stress Tolerance
Authors: Prakash M K Chandra , Thomas Reena Rosy , Mondal Papiya
Published: August 2023

Living organisms alter their gene-expression patterns to withstand stressful conditions. Drought, salinity, heat and chilling are potent abiotic stresses causing an alteration in gene expression. Among these, high temperature stress stimulates Heat Shock Transcription Factors (HSF) which activate heat shock promoters, thus turning on the heat shock genes. Heat shock proteins are, therefore, products of heat shock genes and are classified as per their molecular weight, including small heat shock proteins (sHsps). Hsps are chaperones playing an important role in stress tolerance. These consist of a conserved domain, flanked by N- and C-terminal regions termed the alphacrystallin domain (ACD), and are widely distributed in living beings. Their role as chaperones is to help the other proteins in protein-folding and prevent irreversible protein aggregation. The conserved domains in sHsps are essential for heat-stress tolerance and for their molecular chaperone activity, enabling plant survival under increasing temperatures, leading to adaptations needed for coping with extremes climatic conditions. The present study focusses on identification of ACDs in the whole-genome of Solanum lycopersicum. A multinational consortium, International Tomato Annotation Group (ITAG), funded in part by the EU-SOL Project, provides annotation of the whole genome of S. lycopersicumavailable in the public domain. We used several in silico methods for exploring alpha-crystallin domains in all the chromosomes of S. lycopersicum. Surprisingly, these ACDs were found to be present in all the chromosomes excepting Chromosome 4; these are highly conserved in sHsps and are related to heat tolerance.
Variability, Heritability, Correlation and Genetic Divergence Studies in Dolichos Bean (Lablab purpureus L.)
Authors: Dhillon T S , Kumar Ajay
Published: August 2023

Variability, heritability, correlation and genetic divergence were studied in 30 strains of dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus L.) for various growth and yield attributing parameters. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation was found in number of flowers per cluster, fresh green pod yield per plant, green pod yield per hectare, and mineral content. High heritability and expected genetic advance was found in number of flowers per cluster, vine length, weight of 10 green pods, fresh green pod yield per plant, and green pod yield per hectare. Genotypic correlation was higher than phenotypic correlation. Yield per plant was positively and significantly correlated with number of branches per plant, number of pods per cluster, number of pods per plant, weight of 10 green pods, number of clusters per plant, and number of flowers per cluster. For genetic divergence studies, the genotypes were grouped into 11 clusters on the basis of relative magnitude of D2values. Maximum intercluster distance was recorded between Clusters VII and I, indicating a wide diversity among these two clusters. Minimum intercluster distance was observed between Clusters IX and VIII, indicating their close relationship. Thus, Clusters VII and I were generally the most divergent from the other clusters. Intra-cluster value was highest for Cluster IX. Intra-cluster distance was least for Clusters VI and X. Among the genotypes, SC-5, SC-7, SC-11, SC-16 and SC-17 were the best in traits related to yield compared to the Check, PS-2.
Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Ridge Gourd [Luffa acutangula (Roxb.) L.]
Authors: Varalakshmi B , Pitchaimuthu M , Rao E Sreenivas , Manjunath K S Sanna , Swathi S H
Published: August 2023

The present investigation was made to determine variability, heritability, genetic advance and correlation of fruit yield with 10 yield-contributing traits in ridge gourd. A wide variability was observed for days taken to first female flower appearance, fruit length, fruit number/plant, fruit weight and fruit yield/ha. Phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than genotypic coefficient of variation for all the traits studied, indicating environmental influence on the expression of these traits. However, high heritability (broad-sense), along with high genetic advance, was recorded in node number at which first female-flower appeared, number of branches, fruit length, number of fruits/plant and fruit weight, indicating presence of additive gene effects. Fruit yield/ha was significantly and positively associated with peduncle length, fruit length, number of fruits/plant (at the phenotypic level), fruit weight and fruit yield/plant. Fruit weight had the highest direct effect (0.847) on fruit yield/ha, followed by fruit yield/plant (0.793), fruit number (0.344), peduncle length (0.237) and number of branches (0.216). Therefore, for yield improvement in ridge gourd, emphasis may be laid on indirect selection using fruit parameters like fruit weight, number of fruits/plant and fruit yield/plant.
Effect of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria and IBA on Rooting of Cuttings in Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa Chev.)
Authors: Sharma Neha , . Babita , Rana Vishal S
Published: August 2023

The present study was conducted under a polyhouse with kiwifruit cuttings. The entire programme of the study was divided into two experiments comprising hardwood and semi-hardwood cuttings. The experiments were laid out in Randomized Block Design, with three replications per treatment. Experiment I was carried out on hardwood cuttings of kiwifruit cultivar Allison and comprised of nine treatments, viz., T1 (IBA 5000ppm), T2 (Bacillus subtilis), T3 (Bacillus licheniformis), T4 (Bacillus subtilis + IBA 4000ppm), T5 (Bacillus licheniformis + IBA 4000ppm), T6 (Bacillus subtilis + IBA 3000ppm), T7 (Bacillus licheniformis + IBA 3000ppm), T8 (Bacillus subtilis + IBA 2000ppm) and T9 (Bacillus licheniformis + IBA 2000ppm). In Experiment II, all the above-mentioned nine treatments were imposed on semi-hardwood cuttings of kiwifruit. Ttreatment IBA 5000ppm recorded best root characteristics (per cent rooted cuttings, number of primary roots secondary roots, length of roots total root length, root biomass); shoot characteristics (shoot length, shoot diameter, shoot biomass) and leaf characteristics (number of leaves and leaf area) in both hardwood and semi-hardwood cuttings. This treatment also resulted in maximum net benefit per 100 cuttings in comparison to other treatments. Among the two types of cuttings studied, hardwood cuttings showed better results on root characteristics. However, semi-hardwood cuttings gave better results on shoot and leaf characteristics.
Standardization of Stage-Wise Requirement of Nutrients in Banana Cv. Grande Naine (AAA)
Authors: Balamohan T N , Auxilia J , Sudha R
Published: August 2023

A field trial was conducted during 2009-2010 at College Orchard, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, to standardize stage-wise requirement of nutrients in banana cv. Grand Naine (AAA). Treatment T16 where application of 100% RDF (165:52.5:495g NPK plant-1) at 4 critical growth stages, i.e., 40:52.5:25, 30:0:35, 30:0:25 and 0:0:15% at the 3rd, 5th, 7th and 9thmonths after planting (MAP), respectively, recorded maximum plant height, pseudostem girth and leaf area index. Maximum bunch weight of 32.15kg was recorded in T16. Higher yield was attributed to more number of (i) hands per bunch, (ii) fingers per hand and (iii) per bunch, besides the higher average weight of the finger. Better quality fruits, with higher TSS, total sugars, low acidity and better sugar:acid blend, were obtained in T16. In treatment T16, where 100% RDF was applied, increased N, P, and K content were seen in the index leaf of the crop. Lower soil-available nutrients, viz., N, P, K, at the higher level of split-application at critical stages of the crop revealed, that, the nutrients applied were utilized efficiently. This was reflected in the better yield and quality obtained. Economics were worked out which indicated T16 as giving the highest cost:benefit ratio (1:3.97).
Effect of Radiation Interception and Canopy Temperature on Growth, Yield and Quality in Banana Cv. Grande Naine (AAA) under Different Planting Densities
Authors: . Lanuakum , Yepthomi Graceli I , Maiti C S
Published: August 2023

A study was made to test the effect of radiation interception and canopy temperature under different planting densities [T1- 1.5m x 1.5m (4,444 plants/ha); T2- 2m x 2m (2500 plants/ha); T3- 1.5m x 2.5m (2666 plants/ha); T4- 2m x 2.5m (2000 plants/ha); T5- 2.5m x 2.5m (1600 plants/ha)] on growth, yield and quality in banana cv. Grande Naine. With an increase in planting density, plant height increased significantly. Pseudostem was tallest in the closest spacing, viz., 1.5m x 1.5m (T1), and was shortest in the widest spacing, 2.5m x 2.5m (T5). T1 treatment (1.5m x 1.5m) recorded the least average-canopy-temperature (25.80°C/day) from the flowering to the harvest. T5 recorded the maximum average-radiation-interception, with a value of 432.16 lux/8 hr/day; whereas, T1 recorded minimum average-radiation-interception of 219.58 lux/8 hr/day. Significant influence of spacing was seen on yield /ha. Plants grown under higher density yielded comparatively higher yield (82.65 t/ha) under a spacing of 1.5m x 1.5m (T1). It is thus seen that growth parameters (pseudostem height and number of leaves) and yield/ha in banana was superior at a higher density (1.5m x 1.5m); whereas, in terms of quality of fruit (TSS and total sugar content) spacing of 2.5m x 2.5m was superior. This indicates a positive influence of radiation interception and canopy temperature in banana production.
Effect of Magnesium on Plant Growth, Dry Matter and Yield in Tomato (Lycipersicon esculentum L.)
Authors: Kasinath B L , Ganeshamurthy A N , Nagegowda N S
Published: August 2023

A field experiment was conducted on magnesium nutrition in tomato hybrid Arka Ananya at ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru, for two years. Graded application of magnesium produced significant difference in fruit yield in tomato among treatments. The yield increased upto 50kg Mg ha-1 application, and decreased beyond this dose. Yield parameters like number of fruits per plant and fruit weight recorded results similar as that of yield. Growth parameters like number of branches and plant-height followed a similar trend. Growth and yield parameters were found to be well correlated with yield. Treatment T3 (50kg Mg ha-1) recorded significantly higher plant height, number of branches, fruit number, fruit weight and fruit yield over the Control, T1, where no magnesium was applied. Yield increase of 29% can be achieved with magnesium application (50kg Mg ha-1) in tomato during winter season.
Antioxidant Activity in Pulp and Peel of Three Mango Varieties
Authors: Madalageri Deepa , Bharati P C , Orsat V , Raghavan V , Kage Udaykumar
Published: August 2023

The aim of the present study was to estimate the content of total polyphenols and flavonoids and to investigate in-vitro antioxidant potential of methanolic extracts of peel and pulp in three Indian mango varieties. Antioxidant activity was assessed using [2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid)] ABTS+ assay, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) assay, ferric-reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) assay, and phosphomolybdate assay for Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC). Total phenolic and flavonoid content was also determined, and expressed in gallic acid equivalent (GAE) and quercetin equivalent (QE), respectively. Results of this study indicated that methanolic extracts of mango peel had significantly higher antioxidant activity compared to that of pulp (29.69 and 3.12), irrespective of the method or variety used. Free radical scavenging and antioxidant activity may be attributed to presence of phenolic (24.61mg GAE/g DM in the peel and 2.01mg GAE/g DM in the pulp) and flavonoid compounds (24.95mg QE/g DM in the peel and 16.15mg E/g DM in the pulp). Antioxidant activity determined by ABTS, DPPH and FRAP assays in mango peel was significantly higher than in the mango pulp (24.95 1.96mg TE /g DM, 23.68 versus 4.60mg BHA/g DM and 40.52 versus 2.781mg TE/g DM), respectively. Results for scavenging activity against DPPH were 96.18% for the peel and 23.86% for the pulp, while, free radical scavenging activity results using ABTS+ assay were 99.62% in the peel and 13.46% in the pulp. Our study justifies research in processing of mango peel into useful, functional food ingredients (powders or extracts).
Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Corm Production and Vase Life in Gladiolus
Authors: Padmalatha T , Reddy G Satyanarayana , Chandrasekhar R
Published: August 2023

Influence of plant growth regulator sprays on corm production and post-harvest life of two gladiolus cultivars, Darshan and Dhiraj, was investigated for two consecutive years, 2008-09 and 2009-10. Growth regulators, viz., gibberellic acid (100 and 150ppm), tri-iodo benzoic acid (TIBA) (50 and 100ppm), 2-chloro, 4-pyridyl phenyl urea (CPPU) (2.5 and 5ppm) and brassinosteroid (BR) (5 and 10ppm) were sprayed at the 3rd and 6thleaf stage. Cv. Darshan recorded maximum number of large cormels per plant and cormel weight, while, cv. Dhiraj recorded maximum number of small cormels per plant in treatments of pre-harvest foliar sprays with plant growth regulators. Foliar sprays of BR (10ppm) and GA3 (150ppm) significantly increased number of corms produced per plant, corm size, corm weight, and propagation coefficient. Number of large cormels and total number of cormels per plant were significantly higher in BR (10ppm), followed by TIBA (100ppm). BR (10ppm) and TIBA (100ppm) produced maximum number of small cormels per plant. Weight of cormels per plant was maximum in BR (10ppm) and GA3 (150ppm). Post-harvest studies revealed that cv. Darshan recorded maximum diameter of second fully-opened floret and higher vase-life than cv. Dhiraj with pre-harvest foliar spray of plant growth regulators. Pre-harvest foliar spray of GA3 (150ppm), BR (10ppm) and CPPU (5ppm) induced earliest first-floret opening and recorded maximum value for number-of-floretsopen- at-a-time per spike, diameter of second fully-opened floret, and vase-life. Foliar spray of BR (10ppm) and GA3 (150ppm) at 3rd and 6th leaf stage can be recommended for large-scale multiplication of quality planting material and longer vase-life of flower spikes, respectively, in gladiolus.
Yield and Economic Viability of Coriander under Frontline Demonstration in Bundi District of Rajasthan
Authors: Dhaka B L , Poonia M K , Meena B S , Bairwa R K
Published: August 2023

A study was conducted in Bundi district of Rajasthan to analyze yield and economics of coriander under frontline demonstration. Results of the study revealed that yields in coriander were substantially higher over the Local Check (Control), fetching the participating farmers a higher price for their produce. A majority of the respondent farmers expressed high (44.32%) to very high (37.50%) level of satisfaction with extension services and performance of the technology under the demonstration.
Chemical Constituents during the Main and Off-Season in Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Cv. Royal Special
Authors: Prasad S R Shivu , Reddy Y T N , Upreti K K , Srilatha V
Published: August 2023

Evaluation and quantification of fruit quality parameters like carbohydrates, phenolics, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, titrable acidity, Total Soluble Solids (TSS), carotenoids and lycopene content was done in fruits of mango cv. Royal Special, at ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, India, during the off-season (October, 2012) and main-season (June, 2013), respectively. 'Royal Special' is a typical off-season bearing cultivar, often characterized by multiple flushing and flowering under South Indian conditions. Major phytonutrients such as total sugars, reducing sugars, starch, total carotenoids, lycopene, total phenols, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, TSS, titrable acidity and average fruit yield per plant, were recorded during the off- and main- seasons. Results indicated that fruits from off-season were higher in the major chemical constituents studied compared to the main-season crop, except for fruit yield per plant. This may be attributed to poor competition for nutrients among the developing fruits which act as a sink, besides fluctuating environmental conditions during the off-season, compared to the main-season.
Studies on Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis of Yield and Yield Components in Onion
Authors: Lakshmi R Rajya
Published: August 2023

Evaluation of 11 varieties of onion, viz., N-2-4-1, B-780, AFLR, AFDR, AW, C-355, Pusa Red, L-28, Arka Kalyan, Phule Samarth and Local revealed that PCV was greater than GCV for all the traits. High values for heritability, coupled with moderate-to-high GCV and genetic gain, were noticed for neck thickness, weight and diameter of the bulb and bulb yield, which can be improved by simple selection. Moderate-to-high estimates for heritability accompanied by low GCV/genetic gain were observed for plant height and number of leaves, which warrant heterosis breeding for amelioration. Genotypic correlation coefficients were higher than the corresponding phenotypic ones for most of the characters, reflecting a predominant role of the heritable factors. Yield showed positive association with plant height, neck thickness, weight, length, equatorial diameter of the bulb, both at the phenotypic and genotypic levels. Path coefficient analysis revealed a positive direct effect with regard to plant height, neck thickness, weight, length and diameter of the bulb. Hence, these are the main characters contributing to yield potential of the onion plant. Therefore, it is suggested to lay emphasis on these traits while imposing selection for bulb yield in the onion crop.
Effect of Post-Harvest Fungal Pathogens on Fruit Quality in Guava Cv. Allahabad Safeda
Authors: Nongmaithem Nabakishor
Published: August 2023

Fruits of guava cultivar 'Allahabad Safeda' at mature yellowish-green stage were collected from Allahabad fruit market. Nine post-harvest fungal pathogens were isolated from these fruits. Of these, two isolates with highest incidence, namely, Pestalosia psidii (fruit canker causing pathogen) and Gloeosporium psidii(anthracnose causing pathogen) were used in the study. Fruits inoculated with the pathogens and Control (a lot of fruits with no treatment) were stored at ambient temperature. The fruits were analyzed for various quality attributes at different storage intervals for upto 15 days. Data revealed that fruits in all the treatments showed a lower fruit-weight loss compared to the untreated fruits. TSS, acidity (%) and ascorbic acid content (mg/100g) were also found to decrease in relation to the Control at 5, 10 or 15 days of storage. The least PLW was recorded in Gloeosporium psidii-treated fruits, followed by those treated with Pestalosia psidii. But for the bio-chemical changes (also due to post-harvest fungi) Gloeosporium psidii-treated fruits had higher TSS, acidity (%) and ascorbic acid content (mg/100g) than Pestalosia psidii-treated fruits.
'Cashew Apple' Juice Blend with Mango, Pineapple and Sapota for Improving Quality of RTS Beverages and Economic Feasibility Thereof
Authors: Roy Anindita , Kumar B Prasanna , Swami D V , Subbramamma P
Published: August 2023

The present study on value-addition in cashew apple (Anacardium occidentale L.) juice by blending it with mango, pineapple and sapota juices for preparation of RTS beverage was conducted during the year 2012-2013 at Horticultural College and Research Institute, Dr. YSR Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh, in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 3 replications and 10 treatments. In the present investigation, 'cashew apple' juice extracted from the fruit was blended with fruit juices of mango, pineapple and sapota in various proportions. RTS beverages prepared from different blends of cashew apple juice were evaluated for physico-chemical and organoleptic properties at 0, 30 and 60 days of storage, and significant differences were observed. RTS beverage prepared from a blend of 25% cashew apple juice + 75% mango juice (T3) recorded a gradual decrease in pH, titrable acidity and ascorbic acid content from 0 to 60 days after storage, whereas, density of the blended juice increased gradually at 0 to 30 days of storage; thereafter it decreased. Total soluble solids, reducing sugars and TSS/Acid ratio gradually increased from 0 to 60 days of storage, followed by 25% cashew apple juice + 75% pineapple juice (T6). Organoleptic score for RTS prepared from 25% cashew apple juice + 75% mango juice blend (T3), followed by 50% cashew apple juice + 50% mango juice blend (T2), 25% cashew apple juice + 75% pineapple juice blend (T6) and 50% cashew apple juice + 50% pineapple juice blend (T5), were found to be high on quality, viz., colour, taste and overall acceptability, up to 60 days of storage, and were economical for RTS preparation.
Comparative Studies on 'Nucellar', 'Sathgudi' and 'Local' Sweet Orange (Mosambi) (Citrus sinensis Osbeck.) under Marathwada Conditions
Authors: Patil M B , Panchal V M
Published: August 2023

The present investigation was conducted during Ambia bahar season in the year 2011-12. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three treatments and seven replications. The variety 'Nucellar' recorded maximum average height of plant, spread of tree, stem girth, number of branches per tree, was early to mature, had highest yield, fruit size, number of segments per fruit, weight of fruit, peel weight, peel thickness of fruit, TSS, and pH, while, the variety 'Sathgudi' recorded maximum juice weight, with low peel-to-juice ratio. The taste of fruits of Local mosambi was sweeter, with less acidity than the other two varieties. Maximum number of seeds per fruit was recorded in Local mosambi. Highest average pH and ascorbic acid content in fruit juice was recorded in cv. Nucellar. Therefore, on the basis of results obtained in the present investigation, it is suggested that of the three varieties studied, 'Nucellar' is the best in yield and other parameters, with 'Sathgudi' being the second best.
Fruit/Seed Morphology, Seed Drying and Germination Studies in Baccaurea courtallensis (Muell.) Arg., a Threatened Under-Utilized Fruit Species of Western Ghats in India
Authors: Yogeesha H S , Ganeshan S , Shivashankara K S , Shetty D L , Kumar C Anil
Published: August 2023

A study was under taken on fruit and seed morphology, seed drying, seed germination and storage behavior in Baccaurea courtallensis, as, this plant is propagated mainly through seeds. Its fruit is a berry consisting of an outer, semi-hard but fleshy rind 2-3 mm thick. The cavity inside the rind is normally occupied by a single, arillate seed, but, two seeds are also seen occasionally. Fresh rind was found to be rich in antioxidants, with 237mg total phenols and 93mg flavonoids per 100 gram fresh weight, but was poor in Vitamin C. A thick, fleshy endosperm is surrounded by the inner seed-coat. The endosperm surrounds the embryo consisting of two papery-thin cotyledons and a minute embryonic axis. Germination was highest (96.7%) when seeds were sown immediately after extraction, with moisture content of about 50%. Reduction in moisture to below 34% showed a drastic decrease in germination. Dried seeds took longer to germinate than did the fresh ones. Seeds with 21% moisture recorded about 60% germination whereas, seeds with 10.2% or 8% moisture failed to germinate, indicating a recalcitrant seed. Temperature in the range of 25-30°C was found to be optimum. Of the two media tested for raising the seedlings, cocopeat medium was superior as, it induced faster growth of the seedlings. Seedling root and shoot were considerably longer, with higher seedling survival rate in cocopeat than in the soil-mix medium. Seedling establishment was poor when planted out of their natural habitat.
Effect of Agrobacterium Infection Time, Co-Cultivation and Cell Density on in vitro Response in Hypocotyl of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Prakash D P , Ramachandra Y L , Hanur Vageeshbabu S
Published: August 2023

The present study purports to assess the effect of Agrobacterium infection time, co-cultivation and cell density on in vitro response in hypocotyl explants of eggplant (brinjal) cv. Manjarigota. Agrobacterium(OD600 0.3-0.5) infection for 10-15 minutes (24.44±2.34%) was found to be optimum, while, higher or lower infection-time resulted in reduced callus initiation, shoot regeneration and explant survival. Explants with no (only Agrobacterium infection) or short (1 day) co-cultivation, showed reduced callus-initiation response and turned yellow, with no regeneration. Callus-initiation response increased from Day 1 (96.66±03.33%), and reached a maximum on Day 2 and Day 3 (100±00.00%). It decreased on further increase in co-cultivation time. Explants co-cultivated for three days showed highest regeneration response (30.00±02.96%) which thereafter reduced with further increase in co-cultivation time. Explants infected with Agrobacterium culture at 0.05 OD600 showed hardly any regeneration, and turned yellow and necrotic on the selection medium. Highest regeneration response (28.33±02.33%) was obtained in explants infected with 0.1 OD600 culture, and this gradually reduced as celldensity increased (upto 1.0 OD600), becoming zero in explants treated with cultures at 1.5 OD600 or above. Agrobacterium overgrowth was noticed on explants infected with cultures of 0.5 OD600 and above. Exposure of hypocotyl explants to higher cell-density, longer infection-time and prolonged co-cultivation regime resulted in severe necrosis of explants; time taken for development of Agrobacterium overgrowth was less with increase in the level of these factors. Regenerated shoots were healthy, green, elongated and showed root induction on culture medium containing Kanamycin.
Assessing Efficiency of White Seedless Grape Vineyards for Table Grape Production
Authors: Shikhamany S D , Borade Swapnil V , Jeughale Sanjay K , Patil Suryakant Y
Published: August 2023

Efficiency of two table grape vineyards each of Thompson Seedless and Tas-A-Ganesh located around Nashik, Maharashtra, were assessed over two cropping seasons based on a score-card developed assigning weights and matrices for various attributes of yield and quality, in accordance with their relative contribution going by established facts on a 100 point scale. The objectives of the study were to draw up a benchmark to evaluate the efficiency of table grape vineyards, analyze the reason for low efficiency, and suggest remedial measures. In addition to the yield, bunch and berry characters are important in table grape production. Skilful management of attributes for yield and quality using available technologies determines efficiency of a vineyard. In general, the efficiency of vineyards was better during the 2014-15 cropping season compared to 2013-14, and that of 'Thompson Seedless' vineyards was higher than Tas-AGanesh. In 'Thompson Seedless', efficiency of Vineyard-1 was better than Vineyard-2 as also in Tas-A-Ganesh. Based on their total score, individual vineyards were ranked as Excellent/Very good/Good/Average/ Below average, year wise. Lacunae in management leading to poor scores were identified to serve as a guide to improvement.
Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Biosynthesis and Regulation of Carotenoids in Plants
Authors: Shilpa P , Ravishankar K V , Shivashankara K S , Sadashiva A T , Kumar N Sunil
Published: August 2023

Carotenoids are coloured compounds beneficial to plants and humans. Some of the major health benefits carotenoids provide include Vitamin A precursors and, antioxidants besides being involved in several physiological functions. Even though several carotenoids are synthesised by plants, only a few like beta/ alpha carotenes and cryptoxanthin serve as Vitamin A precursors. The rest are useful as antioxidants. To draw maximum benefits from carotenoids, we need to incorporate these in crop improvement programmes for enhancing available Vitamin A precursor carotenoids. Therefore, it is essential to study biosynthesis of carotenoids, their genetics and their control. In this review, we focus on factors regulating carotenoid biosynthesis, metabolism and storage in plastids. Transcriptional and genetic control of carotenoid production in plants is discussed in the review using several mutants too. Further, environmental regulation of carotenoid biosynthesis is also highlighted. Carotenoid-rich fruits and vegetables have greater economic value owing to their health-promoting effects. Besides,carotenoids have several industrial applications. Therefore, knowledge of regulation mechanism in carotenoid production in plants can help develop crop varieties or technologies, thus generating carotene-rich fruits and vegetables.
PGPR in Managing Root Rot Disease and Enhancing Growth in Mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco.) Seedlings
Authors: Chakraborty B N , Allay S , Chakraborty A P , Chakraborty U
Published: August 2023

Decline in general plant-health and fruit production in mandarin influenced by abiotic and biotic factors is a major threat to cultivars grown in Darjeeling and Sikkim hills. Fusarium root rot, caused by F. oxysporum, is one of the most serious diseases afflicted during early plant growth stage in Citrus. To address this, seven PGPR isolates - Pseudomonas poae (RMK03), Bacillus stratosphericus (RHS/CL-01), Ochrobactrum anthropi, Paenibacillus lentimorbus, Bacillus pumilus, Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens were isolated from the rhizosphere of Citrus reticulata, C. limonia and Camellia sinensis, and used for evaluating their effect on growth of mandarin seedlings. Pseudomonas poae showed in vitro antagonism to Fusarium oxysporum. Better growth enhancement was noticed with P. poae, B. stratosphericus, O. anthropi and B. pumilus. Enhanced activity of chlorophyll, total protein, phenol, four major defense enzymeschitinase, β-1, 3-glucanase, peroxidase and phenyalanine ammonia lyase was observed upon application of PGPR. P. poae also suppressed root rot caused by Fusarium oxysporum. Use of PGPR, which promote growth besides reducing disease severity to some extent, may lead to use of eco-friendly approaches for controlling plant diseases.
A Rapid Protocol for Somatic Embryogenesis Mediated Regeneration in Banana (Musa Spp.) Cv. Nendran
Authors: Lekshmi R S , Soni K B , Alex Swapna , Nair Deepa S , Sreekantan Lekha , Reghunath B R
Published: August 2023

A simple and rapid protocol for somatic embryogenesis in banana cv. Nendran (AAB) using immature male flowers (IMF) has been developed. The IMF produced palewhite to yellow, globular embryogenic callus on MS medium supplemented with BA (0.05 - 0.50mgL-1) and picloram (0.50 - 2.00mgL-1) with explant response of to 30 per cent. Addition of ascorbic acid (20mgL-1) and Gelrite© (0.45 per cent) to callus induction medium reduced interference from phenolic exudation. Embryogenesis was induced (33.3 to 60 per cent) on semisolid (0.30 per cent Gelrite©) MS medium supplemented with BA 2mgL-1 + IAA 0.5mgL-1. The somatic embryos showed 60-80 per cent germination on half- strength semisolid MS medium with BA 2mgL-1 + IAA 0.5mgL-1. Transfer of germinated embryos to semisolid MS medium supplemented with BA 2mgL-1 + NAA 1mgL-1under 14 h light /8h dark photoperiod resulted in hundred percent conversion to plantlets. This protocol takes merely 6 months for producing plantlets from immature flower buds through somatic embryogenesis, without any intermediate liquid cultures.
Effect of Cane Regulation and GA3 Spray on Berry Thinning in 'Thompson Seedless' Grape (Vitis vinifera L.)
Authors: Shikhamany S D , Borade Swapnil V , Jeughale Sanjay K , Patil Suryakant Y
Published: August 2023

A field trial was conducted during 2013-14 and 2014-15 fruiting seasons in growers' vineyards around Nashik, Maharashtra, India to improve efficacy of GA3 sprays in berrythinning. As smaller clusters have fewer berries, cluster compactness derived at by number of berries per unit length (cm) of rachis, and, berry-diameter were considered as a measure of berry-thinning. As GA3 effect in berry-thinning is stage-specific, canes uniformly thick in a vine only were retained to achieve uniformity in flowering, by inducing uniform bud-break. Cane regulation did not result in uniformity in bud-break or flowering. Blanket spray of GA3 thrice @ 20g a.i./ha, each coupled with either removal of non-uniform canes or retention of all the canes could effectively reduce cluster compactness by reducing number of berries per cluster, without increasing total length of the rachis/cluster or berry diameter. Vine yield and quality in terms of total soluble solids and acid content were not affected by the treatments. Considering cluster-compactness, yield and ease of cultural operations, retention of all the canes in a vine, coupled with three blanket sprays each of GA3 @ 20g a.i/ha, on alternate days commencing from initiation of the bloom, is recommended for 'Thompson Seedless'.
Standardization of an in Vitro Regeneration Protocol in Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus Ex. Hooker F.)
Authors: Dutta Koushik , Gantait Subhendu S
Published: August 2023

An experiment was undertaken to develop an improved in vitro regeneration protocol in gerbera. Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium was supplemented with various growth regulators at different concentrations for callus induction and organogenesis. Newly emerging leaves of Gerbera cv. Rosalin were used as explants. Experimental results showed that maximum rate (74.07%) of formation of callus with good growth was recorded on MS medium supplemented with 2.0mgL-1 2,4-D + BAP 0.5mgL-1. Best shoot regeneration (57.8 %) with maximum shoot number (12.0) was achieved on with BAP 2.0mgL-1 + NAA 0.5mgL-1 fortified MS medium. Maximum (66.7 %) and earliest (12.3 days) root formation in shoots was recorded on IBA 3.0mgL-1is 1/2MS media. Survival rate of regenerated plantlets was maximum (73.33 %) in the potting mixture containing garden soil, sand and vermicompost (1:1:1).
Growth and Yield Performance of Hybrid Hot Pepper, Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) as Influenced by Fertigation and Polyethylene Mulching
Authors: Reddy G Chandramohan , Hebbar S S , Nair A K , Raghupathy H B , Gowda A.P Mallikarjuna , Umesha K
Published: August 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Bengaluru during 2015 to study the effect of fertigation on performance of hybrid chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). The trial included nine treatments comprising varying rates and sources of fertilizers, tested with or without mulching. Application of recommended dose of fertilizer (180:120:180 kg NPK/ha) through fertigation using water-soluble fertilizers resulted in higher values for plant height (104.27 cm), number of branches per plant (16.71), leaf area per plant (89.44 dm2), dry matter per plant (185.49 g), number of fruits per plant (142.7), fruit length (11.13 cm), fruit girth (4.75 cm), fruit weight (1.29 g), yield per plant (184.11 g) and fruit yield (5.03 t/ha) which remained on par with same amount of fertilizer applied using conventional means along with polyethylene mulching. In general, treatments that received fertilizers through fertigation took less number of days to flowering over conventional soil-application of fertilizers. All fertigation treatments recorded higher dry-chilli fruit yield over the conventional soil-application of fertilizers, to a tune of 27.87% to 52.4% over the control.
Effect of Growth Regulators on Rooting of Cuttings in Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Cv. 'Bhagwa'
Authors: Seiar Y Ahmad
Published: August 2023

An experiment was conducted at Regional Horticultural Research and Extension Center (RHREC), UHS, GKVK, Bengaluru, in the summer of 2014. Ten treatments of growth regulator formulations were imposed, including the Control, under Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Semi-hardwood cuttings of pomegranate were prepared from healthy twigs 20 to 30cm long, bearing 4 to 5 nodes and a thickness of 0.75 to 1.0cm. The cuttings were treated with a combination of different concentrations (500, 1000 or 1500 ppm) of indole butyric acid (IBA), and 500, 1000 or 1500 ppm of naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) for 8 hours. Results showed that highest sprouting percentage (68.00%), highest rooting percentage (60.40%), maximum number of sprouts (2.09), greatest diameter of sprout (0.59cm), longest roots (18.9cm) and widest diameter of root (1.62mm) were recorded in cuttings treated with IBA 1500ppm + NAA 1500ppm, whereas, longest sprout (34.50cm), highest number of primary roots (10.30) and secondary roots (62.70), highest fresh weight of sprout (9.03g), highest dry weight of shoot (4.66g), highest fresh weight of root (2.70g) and the highest dry weight of root (1.63g) per cutting was recorded with IBA 1500ppm + NAA 1000ppm.
Evaluation of Lilium Hybrids (Lilium x hybrida) for Growth, Flowering and Bulb Attributes in the Hilly Regions of Uttarakhand
Authors: Bhandari Narendra Singh , Srivastava Ranjan , Goshwami Versha
Published: August 2023

The present study was initiated to elucidate performance of 18 exotic lilium hybrids (Lilium x hybrida) to assess their suitability for commercial cultivation in the hilly regions of Uttarakhand. The investigation was carried out at Jilling Floritech farm during 2014-15 under protected conditions in Randomised Block Design. All the 18 hybrid varieties showed significant variation for vegetative, flowering and bulb attributes. Analysis of data indicated that among the cultivars studied, earliest sprout emergence (4.66 days) was recorded in 'Yellow Diamond'. Earliest flower-bud initiation (30.33 days) was recorded in 'Bach', and flower-bud colour break stage (46.33 days) and flowering (50.00 days) in 'Detroit'. Maximum number of flower buds/plant (8.66) was recorded in 'Pollyana', longest inflorescences (25.23cm) in I'ndian Summerset', maximum flower diameter (17.66cm) in 'Creil' and 'Golden Tycoon', maximum plant height (145.13cm) in 'Bright Dimond', and maximum stem thickness (1.86cm) in 'Novana'. However, maximum number of bulblets (6.66) per plant was recorded in 'Ceb Dazzle'.
Effect of Calcium, Boron and Sorbitol on Fruit-Set, Yield and Quality in Mango Cv. Himsagar
Authors: Talang H D , Dutta P , Mukhim C , Patil S
Published: August 2023

An investigation was carried out to study the effect of foliar spray of micronutrients, viz, calcium and boron and sorbitol on fruit-set, yield and fruit quality in mango (Mangifera indica L). cv. Himsagar, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Regional Research Station, Gayeshpur. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD), with three replications. Results revealed that boric acid (0.02%) + sorbitol (2.0%) were the most effective for enhancing fruit-set (1.58%), yield (48.51 kg tree-1), fruit weight (165.6 g), TSS (18.59°Brix), total sugars (14.92%) and ascorbic acid content (20.32 mg 100 g-1), while, calcium nitrate (Ca-0.06%) + boric acid (B-0.02%) proved to be the most effective for increasing shelf life in mango cv. Himsagar, at ambient room temperature.
Cross-Infectivity of Ralstonia solanacearum from Marigold Grown in Andaman Islands
Authors: Sakthivel K , Baskaran V , Abirami K , Manigundan K , Gautam R K
Published: August 2023

Bacterial wilt disease, caused by Ralstonia solanacearum, is one of the major concerns for marigold cultivation in Andaman Islands. Cross-infectivity potential of the bacterial wilt pathogen, isolated from marigold, was tested in other common vegetable-hosts of the Island. Pathogen identity was confirmed by morphological identification and Biolog based phenotypic fingerprinting. Cross-infectivity tests revealed tomato to be the most susceptible among the three solanaceous hosts tested. Highest wilt incidence was observed in tomato and marigold (100%) plants, followed by 55.6% in brinjal and 22.3% in chilli, upon artificial soil inoculation. Our study enlightens pathogenic potential of the bacterial wilt pathogen in important vegetable crops of Andaman Islands and can help formulate suitable management practices for successful management of the pathogen.