bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physico-chemical Properties Evaluation and Characteristics of Instant Cereal from Coconut Cake
Authors: Ishak Zuwariah , Khalid Khairunizah Hazila , Hussin Faridah , Noor Nik Mohd Faiz Che Mohd , Hashim Mohd Fakhri
Published: July 2023

The instant coconut cereal was developed using a mixture design and ten formulations of cereal were produced using coconut cake, corn flour and brown rice flour. The characteristics and functional properties of instant cereal from coconut cake on dietary fiber, physical and nutritional analysis were studied. Based on the simplex-centroid design, coconut cake had an improving effect significantly on the total dietary fiber (TDF), insoluble dietary fiber, and soluble dietary fiber but, not significantly in colour. The best mixture giving optimal total dietary fiber, insoluble dietary fiber, soluble dietary fiber was that containing 100% coconut cake flour. The result for TDF showed that the top three with the highest fibre content were cereal 3, 15.25%; followed by cereal 7, 11.75% and cereal 5, 10.05%. The addition of brown rice flour showed the highest water absorption index compared to whole corn flour and coconut flour. On the other hand, addition of coconut cake significantly increased the water solubility index compare to whole corn flour. The bulk density of the drum-dried instant cereal ranged between 0.32 and 0.36 g/cm3. The moisture content of ten formulations of cereal in the study was within the recommended range. The protein content of the cereal (g/100 g of dry matter) was the lowest in cereal 8 (6.96) and the highest in cereal 3 (8.83). It also shows that the ten formulations of coconut cereal has an array of nutritional properties that varied according to flour proportion.
Constraints Confronted in Online Education during COVID-19 Pandemic in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Ghouse L. Mohammed , Karthikeyan C. , Padma S. R.
Published: July 2023

Online learning was adopted by all the educational institutions worldwide due to the outburst of COVID-19 pandemic. It has wreaked havoc on numerous areas of the economy, and the education sector is no exception. The lockdown imposed by the Union and State Governments to stem the spread of the virus and mitigate its effects has taken the academic community by surprise. University Grants Commission (UGC) insisted Higher Educational Institutes to take online learning during lockdown period. This study was aimed to enumerate the constraints confronted by students and teachers participated in online education. The study was conducted among 275 Undergraduate students and 150 teachers in Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. Constraints were collected in the form of open ended responses and tabulated in to different dimensions based on multiple responses. The constraints from students has been enlisted into six dimensions namely technical constraints, institutional constraints, socio-emotional constraints, health constraints, learning constraints and environmental constraints. The constraints from teachers have been enlisted into five dimensions namely teaching constraints, monitoring constraints, evaluation constraints, socio-emotional constraints and learner constraints. Necessary steps need to be taken to improve the quality of online learning in case of pandemic situation in future scenario.
A Study on the Factors Affecting Purchase Decision for Cheese Analogue Premix in B2B Segment
Authors: Vasoya G. J. , Dudhagara Chetan R. , Khanna V. R.
Published: July 2023

Globalization has changed the trend of food consumption in India drastically. Fast foods and processed foods have attracted youngsters to the extent that the ingredients like cheese, mayonnaise, tomato puree and many others have gained extreme popularity. The purpose of this study was to understand the various types of cheese and their alternatives available in the Business to Business (B2B) market with a focus on the types of cheese accepted by the food vendors and their specific properties that are desirable for certain food preparations. The study unveils the concept of cheese analogue which is new in this segment and is used as an alternative to dairy cheese. The study was carried out by collecting primary data from 130 food vendors and 5 producers. The research follows a descriptive research design, utilizing a non-probability sampling method, specifically purposive sampling. The results of this study will offer important new understandings of cheese substitutes, consumption patterns, buying behavior and problems faced by producers in the study area.
Cadmium Priming Alleviates Salinity Induced Oxidative Stress in Pigeon Pea
Authors: Sahu Abhaya Kumar , Behera Beda Saurav , Kumari Punam
Published: July 2023

Plants are regularly exposed to an adverse environment due to their sessile nature which has negative impacts on plant development and productivity. In this study, the effect of  seeds priming with 50 µM CdCl2 in  ameliorating the salinity (200 mM NaCl) induced oxidative stress in pigeon pea was assessed. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content was reduced in Cd+SS (50 µM CdCl2 primed followed by 200 mM NaCl treatment) tissues as compared to salt stressed (SS) tissues. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), and guaicol peroxidase (GPX) were increased in Cd+SS tissues as compared to SS tissues. Moreover, the concentrations of ascorbic acid (ASC) and proline were also increased in Cd+SS tissues as compared to SS tissues. Thus, a low dose Cd priming provided tolerance to pigeon pea seedlings by activating the antioxidant machinery.
Distribution of Body Mass Index and Abdominal Obesity in Bayelsa State with Associated Interleukin-2 Gene Expression
Authors: Ogbole Faith Ajiebabhio , Sanugba Evans Egereghe
Published: July 2023

Aims: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the distribution, prevalence and determinants of obesity, overweight and abdominal obesity in Bayelsa State, Nigeria as well as associated IL-2 gene expression.

Study Design: A community based cross sectional study design was employed to randomly select 420 participants (aged 18 – 65 years) for the study.

Methodology: The study participants were grouped into normal, overweight and general obesity based on their body mass index (BMI) and sub-grouped into normal and abdominal obesity based on their waist circumference. Weighing scale, metre rule and measuring tape were used to measure weight, height and waist circumference respectively. Real time PCR was used to quantify IL-2 gene expression.

Results: The BMI distribution of adults in Bayelsa State was symmetrical around the mean (27.25 ± 4.12). Mean waist circumference was 95.27 ± 15.92 (men 97.51 ± 12.38; women 93.41 ± 18.15 cm).  The prevalence of obesity, overweight and abdominal obesity were 26.2% (male, 10.7%; females, 15.5%), 35.2% (males, 16.4%; female, 18.8%), and 62.9% (males, 28.1% females, 34.8%) respectively. Compared with the normal group, a significant upregulation of IL-2 gene expression was found in the overweight, general obesity and abdominal obesity groups (p < 0.05). Significant association of the following determinants with obesity was found: both sexes, age group 36 - 55 years, working as small and medium scale business entrepreneurs and civil servants. Age group 56 – 65 years and female sex were associated with abdominal obesity.

Conclusion: The present study found a high prevalence of overweight, general obesity and abdominal obesity in Bayelsa State and associated over expression of IL-2 gene. Findings may have implication for IL-2 based biomarker and drug development. Interventions to reduce BMI and waist circumference in Bayelsa State is emphasized in the present study.
Factors Influencing Consumers Intention towards Online Food Purchasing in Phnom Penh
Authors: Long Bunteng
Published: July 2023

The purspose of this study is to indentify factors influencing the consumer intention towards the online food purchasing in Phnom Penh. The conceptual frameworkis developed from previous study which includes perceived convenience, customer control, advertsing, technolgy eagerness, online purchase attitude, and online purchase intention. The quantitative method was applied to distribute questionaires to 400 respondents. Multi-stage sampling technique was conducted in nonprobability sampling approach, using judgmental sampling to select relevant respondents in Phnom Penh, quota sampling to calculate the sample size of the targeted respondents, and convenience sampling to distribute questionaires online, using Google-based surevy form. Item-Objective Congruence and Cronbach’s Alpha were employed to validate the constructs. Confirmatory Factior Aalysis (CFA) was used to verify conventient and discriminant validity, and goodness of fit indices. Structural Equation Model (SEM) was carried out to test the relationship among variables. The results from the analysis revealed that advertisng and technology eargerness have signigicant influences on online purchase attitude, and online purchase attitude has significant influence on purchase intention. However, the customer control and perceived convenience do not have any influences on the online purchase attitude.
Analysis of Product Mix Variables Associated with Prescribing Behaviour of Doctors in Hyderabad, Telangana
Authors: Kamarapu Balasri Prasad , Saritha B.
Published: July 2023

The industry with the highest growth rate is India's pharmaceutical sector. This study aims to investigate the various determinants associated with the prescribing behaviour of doctors. It is based on a comprehensive review of existing literature and survey data collected from a sample of doctors from different regions and specialties. The study examines the role of various factors, such as the doctor's demographic characteristics, product mix variables, in shaping doctors' prescribing behaviour. The results indicate multiple factors, including the doctor's age, years of experience, level of education, and patient demand, significantly influence prescribing behaviour. The study shows that pharmaceutical marketing and financial incentives have a considerable impact on the prescribing behaviour of doctors. This study provides a better understanding of the complex factors that influence prescribing behaviour and underscores the importance of developing interventions to promote evidence-based prescribing practices.
Influence of Parkia biglobosa (Jacq.) R. Br. Ex G. Don on the Herbaceous Vegetation in the Katouré Valley of the Commune of Nyassia (Basse Casamance-Senegal)
Authors: Bassene Jean , Diedhiou Siré , Goudiaby Arfang O. K. , Sambou Antoine , Sow Mamadou , Sagna Yves P. , Diatta Yaya , Fall Saliou , Ndoye Ibrahima , Diallo Mariama D.
Published: July 2023

Aims: Trees outside of protected areas play an important role in providing ecosystem services. They participate in the development of the mat by creating favorable conditions for the development of grasses. The influence of trees on the development and distribution of grasses is not well known. It is in this sense that this study was conducted to determine the effect of Parkia biglobosa cover on the composition, diversity, structure and spatial distribution of herbaceous vegetation.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the commune of Nyassia in Lower Casamance on a site identified as a Parkia biglobosa park in the Katouré valley in August 2021.

Methodology: Floristic surveys were conducted under (R, R/2, R and 2R) and outside the control tree canopy.

Results: It was found that the number of species under the tree canopy ranged from 13 to 16 species and was greater than that observed outside the canopy (6 species). Species such as Bracharia deflexa, Cyperus esculentus, Echinochloa colona, Indigofera heudelotii and Pentodon pentandrus were the most frequently encountered in the surveys under the tree canopy (0R, R/2 and R). In contrast, Andropogon gayanus and Bulbostylis capillaris were the most abundant species in the noncanopy surveys. The canopy cover of P. biglobosa, which ranged from 70±17.6 (2R) to 83±19.4 (R/2), was higher than in the uncovered level (54±15.4). Diversity analysis  revealed that the canopy surveys 0R (0.80±0.06), R/2 (0.81±0.04) and R (0.77±0.06) were the most diverse.

Conclusion: The presence of Parkia biglobosa influenced the presence of herbaceous species and improved habitat conditions.
Development and Validation of an Instructional Module in Science, Technology, and Society (STS) in the Tertiary Education Curriculum
Authors: Homillano Ludivico B.
Published: July 2023

Aims: As an institution of higher learning, the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) shifted its instructional modality during the COVID-19 pandemic through Virtual Learning Portal. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of a developed instructional module in Science, Technology, and Society (STS) based on the competencies of revised tertiary education curricula implemented in 2018 and how valid it is when utilized online.

Study Design:  Descriptive-correlation design was used in the study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at CBSUA, San Jose, Pili, Camarines Sur, in the second semester of 2020-2021.

Methodology: The developed instructional module for STS was uploaded to the University's Virtual Learning Portal (VLP) and utilized by 35 Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) students comprised of 13 males and 22 females. The competencies of the IMs were based on the latest CHED Memorandum Orders (CMOs) of the teacher education curriculum. There were 15 modules and three assessments facilitated with pre-tests and post-tests for each module. The data were tabulated through means and t-tests.

Results: Results showed that the evaluator's overall rating on the developed instructional module, with a mean of 4.42, signified a good evaluation of its validity. Further, there is a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test means, with the absolute value of the computed t-stat (-5.515) being greater than the t-stat tabular/critical for a one-tail distribution (1.771) and two-tail distribution (2.160). Further, the mean of the post-test (6.538) is significantly higher than that of the pre-test (5.987), reflecting the improvement of the cognitive aspect of students.

Conclusion: The instructional module developed in STS with competencies aligned with the revised tertiary education curricula was valid despite the utilization of it through online modality due to the pandemic.
A Contrastive Analysis of English and Bisayan Languages: Cases of Pronouns in Focus
Authors: Canoy Fe T.
Published: July 2023

The Bisayan language, a subgroup of the Austronesian languages, has a sound system that is representative of the Malayo-Polynesian languages. It is used as a means of communication in the provinces of Cebu, Negros Oriental, Bohol, Southern Leyte, Southern Masbate, and almost anywhere in Mindanao. Bisayan speakers constitute the second-largest ethno-linguistic group in the world. With the implementation of MTB-MLE, studying the similarities between English, the universal language, and Bisaya is considered significant. The objective of this contrastive study is to provide an overview of the patterns of personal pronouns in Bisaya in comparison to English. Specifically, the study focuses on the usage of pronouns in both English and Bisaya languages. Pronouns serve as replacements for a noun, noun phrase, or clause in a sentence. To achieve the goal of this study, children's stories written in Bisaya and translated into English were utilized as the study corpus. One notable finding of this study is that all pronouns in the Bisaya language can be used to refer to individuals of all genders, which differs from English. While the majority of the findings in this study align with previous investigations and provide supporting evidence, it is highly recommended that future research explore other linguistic aspects to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the distinctions and similarities between these two languages.
Analysis of Mathematics Problem Solving Ability Students Based on Mathematical Resilience and Gender
Authors: Santosa Afriana , Maison  , Huda Nizlel
Published: July 2023

The ability to solve mathematical problems is an important thing that must be possessed by students. The fact is that students' mathematical problem-solving abilities are still low, one of the reasons for this is low mathematic resistance. This research is a qualitative research that aims to describe students' mathematical problem solving abilities in terms of mathematical resilience and gender. This study used a purposive sampling technique with 6 research subjects in class VIII SMP Negeri 5 Tanjung Jabung Timur based on 3 categories of mathematical resilience and gender. The instrument used is a mathematical resilience questionnaire, problem solving ability test questions and a list of interviews. The results of the research analysis showed that RMTP subjects had good abilities in solving the problems given.
Community Based Sustainable Tourism and Its Impact on Socio-Economic Development of Phobjikha Valley
Authors: Dema  , Tashi  , Gyeltshen Kuenzang
Published: July 2023

This paper aims to assess the Impact of Community Based Sustainable Tourism development in Phobjikha Valley in Wangduephodrang district, Bhutan. This paper considers the impact of CBST from the perspective of local people in two development aspects: economic, and sociocultural.  In addition, this paper explores the perspective of the local people to support the initiation of Community-Based Sustainable Tourism in the valley of Phobjikha, through their views on the Challenges that are brought by it and the effort they put in to overcome those challenges through different means of Interventions. This paper employed mixed methods, and the data were collected through Field survey questionnaires, survey interviews, and two FGDs. This paper found that CBST has brought positive economic and socio-cultural impact, while in other aspects, it produces negative impacts such as environmental damage due to inadequate management of waste. Therefore, this paper proposes the application of collaborative strategy between community, local government, and tourism business actors in order to develop community-based sustainable tourism in Phobjikha valley.
Socio-demographic Profile of Female Engaging in Self-poisoning at a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Yousuf Faisal Bin , Sarker Shyamal , Ferdous Tanzila , Chowdhury Sayeda Moni , Quayum Sayat
Published: July 2023

Background: Suicide is a prevalent form of unnatural death and a persistent social problem in Bangladesh. The act of self-poisoning is prevalent in our country, posing a significant medico-social challenge with approximately 300,000 cases and around 2,000 fatalities annually. The occurrence, causes, characteristics, affected age groups, and outcomes of self-poisoning in Bangladesh differ from those observed in Western countries. Notably, there is a concerning upward trend in the number of self-poisoning incidents among females in our nation.

Aim of the Study: This research aimed to assess the socio-demographic traits of adult females who engaged in self-poisoning.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study occurred at the Department of Medicine in Dhaka Medical College Hospital, located in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from January 2016 to June 2016. The study aimed to investigate self-poisoning among adult female patients, and 100 participants were included as subjects. Prior to data collection, informed consent was obtained from all the participants in accordance with ethical guidelines. The collected data were subsequently processed, analyzed, and managed using MS Excel and SPSS version 23.0 software, as required for the study.

Results: The average age of the participants in the study was 28.19±9.84 years. Most participants resided in rural areas (62%), followed by 75% who identified as Muslim. About 55% of the participants came from joint families, and the occupation most frequently reported was "housewife" (30%). Around 51% of the cases belonged to the lower economic class, while 48% of the patients had completed primary-level education. Among the participants, 51% were married. Regarding the timing of self-poisoning incidents, the majority occurred between 6 am and 12 pm (42%). Insecticide was the most commonly used poison material, accounting for 43% of the cases. Notably, a significant majority (81%) of the self-poisoning patients did not have any previous illnesses.

Conclusion: Intentional self-poisoning is higher among females in younger age groups, particularly among homemakers and students. The majority of individuals affected by this issue come from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds. Self-poisoning incidents are more likely to occur during the daytime, and insecticide is most commonly used for this purpose among females. The leading causes of deliberate self-poisoning in this demographic are familial conflicts and experiencing disappointment in romantic relationships.
The Ameliorative Effect of Honey on Lead (Pb) – Induced Nephrotoxicity in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Ojeka S. O. , Njoku B. , Onwoke E. E.
Published: July 2023

Exposure to lead (Pb2+) is known to portend serious damaging effects on the kidneys which are central to drug and substances excretion. Hence, a natural chelating agent such as honey is sought to attenuate the deleterious effects of lead induced renal damage. This study investigated the ameliorative influence of honey on renal function in lead – induced nephrotoxicity in wistar rats. Twenty-four (24) adult male Wistar rats (weighing 180-200g) were divided into four groups of six (n=6) rats each. Group 1: served as (negative control) and received distilled water and rat chow ad libitum. Group 2: served as positive control received 10mg/kg bw of Lead. Group 3: Received 2mls of 50% dilution of honey. Group 4: Received 10mg/kg bw of Lead + 2mls of 50% dilution of honey. All treatments were daily administered orally using oral gavage and lasted for 28 days. At the end of drug administration, experimental animals were anaesthetized using ketamine. Cardiac puncture was used for blood collection for analysis of renal function parameters. Significant (p<0.05) elevations in the serum potassium, uric acid, urea and creatinine were observed for the lead (Pb) treated group compared to the control. However, there were significant (p<0.05) decrease in the serum levels of sodium, potassium, uric acid, urea and creatinine in the groups treated with honey alone and honey + lead (Pb) when compared with the lead (Pb) treated group. These results strongly suggest a possible tubular disruption and consequent alteration of ionic pumps, and ion channels within the renal tubules due to lead (Pb) exposure. This clearly points to the fact that honey may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can be concluded that oral administration of honey confers a protective and ameliorative potentials against heavy metals (lead) induced kidney dysfunction in experimental animal models. However, lead (Pb2+) toxicity may seem to possess inhibitory properties on the renal Na+/K+ ATPase; because of reduced serum sodium with increased serum potassium levels recorded in this study.
Determination of Bacterial Isolates from Cocoa Almonds during Fermentation in “saf’s” Agroforestry System in the Amazon
Authors: Quadros Jeferson Santana , Barros Mateus Cardoso , Paiva Rafael da Silva , Silva Magnun Antonio Penariol da , Nunes Raquel Soares Casaes
Published: July 2023

Agroforestry systems (SAFs) are an alternative for sustainable development as they enable the recovery of degraded areas and reduce deforestation, contributing to breaking the cycle of traditional family farming, so common in the Amazon region. The significant appearance of endophytic microorganisms, such as bacteria in cocoa almonds, can benefit its production commonly with fermentative bacteria. The aim of the study was to characterize the microbiota of cocoa beans during the fermentation process. The isolation of bacteria was performed from the collected samples; one of the applied procedures was the scraping of the dried and fermented cocoa almonds. Afterward, aliquots were subcultured in a Petri dish with a culture medium containing Blood agar and MacConkey agar to verify bacteria. Cultures were analyzed by counting colony-forming units (CFU/mL). Molecular analyses and sequencing were utilized to describe the microbial diversity. DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analyzes were performed to emphasize microbial morphology characterization. Gram-negative bacilli (Enterobacter spp. and Citrobacter spp.) and Gram-positive bacilli (Bacillus spp.) were found in cocoa beans after 72 h of fermentation. This work contributed to the characterization of endophytic bacteria in cocoa seeds, enabling in-depth studies of in vitro verification of the potential for biocontrol of these endophytic bacteria in cocoa cultivation.
Congenital Cystic Adenomatoid Malformation: A Case Report
Authors: Aouraghe H. , Filali I. , Chtouki L. , Bentahila A.
Published: July 2023

The case report is being done to increase the knowledge of Congenital Cystic Adenomatoid Malformation (CCAM) along with to better understand about the disease and its management & raise awareness. A female infant (aged 9 months and birth weight 2500 gm) was selected as participant. After physical examination, the state of the participant was good (fever:37.6ºC, heart rate: 120/min, respiratory rate: 40/min). Holding a good health certificate, a cystic image was identified at pulmonary artery in chest X-ray report. The histology findings were consistent with CPAM Type I. CPAM surgery, generally favorable, results in low postoperative morbidity and mortality. CPAM is a rare developmental malformation of lung that causes pulmonary compression and hypoplasia leading to respiratory distress but the postnatal management of asymptomatic CPAM remains controversial.
Compatibility of Bio and Natural Compounds with Trichogramma evanescens (Westwood) for Pieris rapae Management in Cauliflower
Authors: Siam Amany Nady , El-Kholy M. Y.
Published: July 2023

The efficacy of a bio compound, Protecto (Bacillus thuringiensis) and botanicals extract (mixture of ginger, garlic, hot red pepper extracts and aloe vera) either in combination with Trichogramma  evanescens releases or alone was evaluated in comparison to an insecticide, Uphold 36% SC (Methoxyfenozide/ Spinetoram) on Pieris rapae on cauliflower Brassica oleracea. Field experiments were conducted at Atfih District, Giza Governorate, Egypt in September 2020 and October 2021. Results revealed that, all the tested compounds combined with Trichogramma releases were more effective in reducing P. rapae population than when used alone. B. thuringiensis with Trichogramma releases caused 96.91% and 95.32% reduction in larval population in 2020 and 2021 respectively while the reduction in Pieris pupal pupation was 70.87% and 71.59% respectively during these two trials. Similar results were observed with botanical extracts. Parasitization by T. evanescens ranged between 91.95-92.77% in the plots sprayed with bio- and natural compounds during the trials in two years. Meanwhile, the insecticide treatment was the least effective in reducing P. rapae population (37.85% and 47.85% respectively). It could be concluded that either B. thuringiensis or the botanicals extract could be integrated with T. evanescens releases for the sustainable production of Cauliflower.
Examining School Quality Assurance Criteria for Enhancing Learning Achievements in Public Primary Schools in Arusha Region, Tanzania
Authors: Makiya Rosemary , Mnyanyi Cosmas , Ngirwa Coletha
Published: July 2023

This study examined School Quality Assurance (SQA) criteria for enhancing learning achievements in Public Primary Schools (PPSs) in the Arusha region, Tanzania, adopting a concurrent research design under a mixed methodology approach. Researchers used semi-structured interviews and closed and open-ended questionnaires for data collection from 226 respondents. Qualitative data were analyzed using a thematic approach, and quantitative data via descriptive and ordinal regression statistics. The study revealed that unawareness, poor understanding, inadequate utilization, infeasibility, and inflexibility of the SQA criteria harmed learning achievements. The lack of familiarity stemmed from insufficient training and limited accessibility of SQA handbooks        among School Quality Assurance Officers (SQAOs) and teachers, resulting in the ineffective implementation of SQA criteria during school assessments. The infeasible and inflexible nature of the criteria failed to address the unique challenges faced by each school. The study found a significant positive relationship between awareness, effective utilization, feasibility, flexibility and sharing of SQA criteria, alongside fair judgments by SQAOs and learning achievements, as their probability values were less than .05. The study recommended in-service training programs on SQA criteria to equip SQAOs, headteachers, and teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge for effectively implementing SQA criteria in the school assessments to enhance learning achievements.
Influence of Zinc and Boron on Growth and Yield of Sunflower
Authors: Rani Begari Divya , Dawson Joy
Published: July 2023

The experiment was conducted at crop research farm in Department of Agronomy during Rabi, 2022 on sunflower crop. The treatment consisted of 3 levels of foliar application of zinc (10 kg/ha, 0.5%, 10 kg/ha + 0.25%) and foliar application of boron (3 kg/ha, 0.3%, 3 kg/ha + 0.15%) and control (80,40,40 kg/ha). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 10 treatments and replicated thrice. Foliar application of Zinc at 10 kg/ha + 0.25% with foliar application of Boron at 3 kg/ha + 0.15% recorded maximum plant height (122.58 cm), Plant dry weight (46.82 g/plant), head diameter (19.20), Seeds/capitulum (311.59), Test weight (53.92 g), Seed yield (1.79 t/ha), stalk yield (4.31 t/ha), Harvest index (29.35 %), gross returns (Rs.1,07,472.00/ha) and net return (Rs.74,608.00/ha). Maximum Benefit Cost Ratio (2.27) was also recorded in the same treatment no. 9 in sunflower crop.
Analysis of Correlation and Path Co-efficient between Yield and Quality Traits in Lowland Rice of Nagaland
Authors: Chhangte Lalrinchhani , Verma Harendra , Seyie Kigwe , Chaturvedi Hanuman
Published: July 2023

Nagaland is among north east states of India that has a great potential of rice production. The people have great affinity for their own local rice and take delight in cultivation of their own indigenous cultivars. The great diversity that existed within this region can be useful in selecting prominent cultivars for further improvement of yield and quality traits as these traits has become the main focus of rice breeder across the country. Not only for the people of Nagaland, discovery of prominent genotypes can be further useful for the neighbouring region of the state since the climatic condition of the surroundings are somewhat similar. Considering the influence of good quality rice on marketing and the need of high yielding rice variety to meet global demand of rice this research was taken up in ICAR-RC, NEH, Medziphema, Nagaland during Kharif 2020-2021 to evaluate the inter-relationship and association of quality and yield traits in 81 rice genotypes collected from various parts of Nagaland. Each genotype was evaluated for important yield and quality parameters. After careful analysis, the general phenotypic correlation coefficient was slightly higher than the corresponding genotypic coefficient of correlation. A significant positive correlation with grain yield was observed in no. of filled grains per panicle, days to 50% flowering, no. of panicles per plant and days to maturity. A positive association between yield traits and quality parameters were also observed. No. of filled grains per panicle, no. of panicles per plant and 1000 grains weight were detected to have high direct effect on grains yield per plant. The results of this investigation could be used for estimating direct of selection for improvement of yield and quality traits in rice breeding program.
Varietial Performance of Spinach (Spinacia oleraceae) at Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Condition
Authors: Ao Sentinaro , Kerketta Anita , Prasad V. M. , Bahadur Vijay
Published: July 2023

The research experiment was  conducted  at the Department of Horticulture’s, SHUATS, Prayagraj during the year 2022.The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design comprising of 9 varieties viz., V1: All Green, V2: Space Spinach, V3: Red kitten Spinach, V4: Catalina Spinach, V5: Bloomdale, V6: Perpetual Spinach, V7: Indian summer Spinach, V8: Punjab Green, V9: Corvair spinach with three replications. The Observations were recorded as per the growth and yield parameters. The findings reveal that the treatment T6 (Perpetual Spinach) was found to be the most suitable over all the other varietiesin relation to the growth and yield of Spinach.
Assessment of Regenerative Response of Early Sugarcane Varieties under In vitro Condition
Authors: Kamat D. N. , Krushalini J. S. , Singh Rajvinder
Published: July 2023

With the aim to assess the regenerative response of six mid late sugarcane clones under in vitro conditions with four different types of growth media and the research was conducted in Sugarcane Hi-tech Laboratory, SRI, DRPCAU, Pusa, Bihar. Shoot apex explant culture of these cultivars on media M1 (MS basal) and M2 (ms basal + 0.5 mgl1 IAA + 0.5 mgl1 + 0.5mgl1 KIN) suggested no definite role of medium on establishment of cultures. Shoot apex culture of the six selected clones on media M3 (MS basal +0.1 mgl1 IAA + 2.0 mgl1 BAP + 1.0 mgl1 KIN) and M4 (MS basal +0.1 mgl1 IAA + 2.0 mgl1 BAP + 1.0 mgl1 KIN) resulted in shoot proliferation and elongation. A genotypic difference for all tissue culture responses were found in the six selected cultivars. CoP16437 has the best response among these six cultivars, while CoP9301 has the lowest response.
Effects of Varying Doses and Timing of Humic Acid Application on Growth and Flowering of Zinnia elegans
Authors: Karmakar Shreya , Sahu Jitendra Kumar , Sharma Vinayak , Das Diptajit , Tirki Kamlesh
Published: July 2023

Aims: The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of humic acid, applied at different concentrations and time intervals, on the vegetative and flowering characters of Zinnia elegans.

Study Design: The experiment was designed as a complete randomized design with three replications and a total of nine treatments.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at the Department of Horticulture, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab. The study was carried out over a specific duration in 2022.

Methodology: The study was conducted in a shaded area, where Zinnia elegans plants were subjected to foliar spraying of humic acid at three different concentrations (2.5, 3.5, and 5.0 mL/L) and at different intervals (10, 30 and 10 and 30 days both after transplanting) after transplanting. Various aspects of plant growth, including plant height, leaf area, root length, branching, and flowering parameters such as days to flower, blooming period, flower size, and number of flowers per plant were observed.

Results: The results showed that foliar application of humic acid at a concentration of 3.5 mL/L in 10 and 30 days after planting significantly increased plant height, leaf area, root length, branching, flower size, and number of flowers per plant. Plants treated with 3.5 mL/L of humic acid exhibited the highest values for these parameters compared to other treatments and the control (water spary). The days taken to flower were also reduced in plants treated with higher concentrations of humic acid.

Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that foliar application of humic acid, particularly at a concentration of 3.5 mL/L in 10 and 30 days after planting, positively influenced the vegetative and flowering dimensions of Zinnia elegans.
Design and Development of a Solar PV Based Evaporative Cooled Transit Storage Unit for Horticultural Products
Authors: Mahangade Priyanka Sharad , Mani Indra , Jagadale Manisha , Jadhav Mahesh
Published: July 2023

Adequate cold storage facility for Horticultural products is critical due to their perishable nature. Green energy based evaporative cooling storage unit is a sustainable and efficient solution for small scale farmers and vegetable vendors in hot and dry climates who need to store their produce. Solar power operated evaporative cooling structures are low cost and efficient in reducing ambient temperature and increasing relative humidity, which increases the shelf-life of vegetables. A green energy-based evaporative cooling transit storage unit of 0.63m3 capacity was designed and fabricated. The transit unit was designed and operated as a a tricycle. Two suction fans (15.6W), submersible water pump (12W) and LED light (2.88Wp) were powered through two 100-Wp solar panels. Two batteries, 7Ah each were also used to store energy. The storage unit was made up of MS sheets of 1.2mm thick while a side of the system was made up of GI wire mesh with honeycomb pad. To test the performance of the developed unit tomato, spinach and radish were used. Results revealed that there was a significant difference (P=0.05) in PLW, firmness, TSS, and colour values of the vegetables when stored inside the unit compared to vegetables stored in ambient condition. The ambient temperature during the study was 32.2-43.4°C and RH was 21.1- 46%. The drop-in temperature was 7.8 to 14.8°C as compared to ambient conditions, while RH in the cooling chamber increased considerably to 84%.  The average cooling efficiency obtained was 84.12%.  The shelf life of stored vegetables inside the unit was 2-5 days higher than those kept under ambient conditions.
An Economic Analysis of Marketing of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) in Jaipur District, Rajasthan, India
Authors: Choudhary Rajesh Kumar , Kumar Sanjay
Published: July 2023

The present study aims to conduct an economic analysis of production and marketing of pearl millet in Jaipur district of Rajasthan.  Price spreads in channels I and II were 525 and 660 rupees per quintal, respectively. For channel I, the producer's share of the consumer's rupee was 73.94, and for channel II, it was 70.11%. The marketing effectiveness of channel I was 4.35 percent, and channel II was 3.50 percent. High labour costs, high PFC chemical costs, etc., as well as frequent price changes, a lack of storage space, high transportation costs, a lack of knowledge about government programmes and subsidies, high commission fees, etc., were barriers to the marketing of pea millet.
Exploitation of Novel Protocol for R-gene Transfer in Common Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Singh Shreetu , Shrivastav Shiv Prakash , Jakhar Dan Singh
Published: July 2023

Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the second most important staple crop suffering from various fungal, bacterial and viral diseases leading to a decrease in yield and productivity of the crop. Breeders have found r gene responsible for developing resistance in the crop against these pathogens. This review attempts to describe the transfer of alien resistant gene (r gene) in wheat and also the techniques involved in it. R gene is covered in details with gene for gene hypothesis and the five classes of r gene. Different approaches both traditional ones, such as backcross, pedigree, and recurrent selection have been discussed, as well as modern ones like mutation breeding, somaclonal variation, and genetic engineering, which address both genetic gain and genetic loss. The transfer of r gene for resistance to specifically powdery mildew (caused by Erysiphe graminis), karnal bunt (caused by Tilletia indica) and rust (Leaf rust, Puccinia triticina; Stem rust, Puccinia graminis: Strip rust, Puccinia striiformis) are outlined. Finally, we made an effort to discuss about possible future advances in R-gene transfer.
Seasonal Incidence and Eco Friendly Management of White Grub in Sugarcane Using Entomopathogenic Nematode and Entomopathogenic Fungus in Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Visalakshi M. , Patil Jagadeesh , Suresh M. , Manisha B. L.
Published: July 2023

High rainfall with increase in humidity (68% to 75%) along with a decrease in temperature ( 3 to 5°C less than usual ) during June, July, and August months favor the emergence of white grub beetles, its egg laying which in turn resulted in severe sugarcane clump damage by white grubs in July, August and September months. Seasonal incidence of white grub in sugarcane growing areas in Andhra Pradesh state showed that damage of sugarcane clumps caused by white grubs infestation was significantly high in march ratoon compared to February ratoon crop; January plant crop and low in January seedling plant crop. Grub damage recorded high in 4 months age sugarcane ratoon crop and low in 6 months and 7 months age sugarcane plant crop. Field efficacy of entomopathogenic nematode and entomopathogenic fungus in the management of white grub, Holotrichia consanguinea in sugarcane was investigated and promoted biocontrol in white grub endemic areas during 2017-18 to 2019-20. Entomopathogenic nematode (Heterorhabditis indica NBAII-H38), entomopathogenic fungi (Metarhizium anisopliae (NBAIR Ma4 )along with a chemical Chlorantraniliprole were evaluated through soil application. The results indicated that Heterorhabditis indica NBAII-H38 (12 kg a.i./ha) soil application two times at monthly interval resulted in higher reduction of white grub damage. Metarhizium anisopliae NBAIR Ma4 (2.5 kg a.i./ha) treated plots caused higher percentage reduction of white grub than chlorantraniliprole treatment. Entomopathogenic nematode, Heterorhabditis indica and entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium anisopliae were found effective than the insecticidal application in the management of sugarcane white grub. Cost benefit of biocontrol agents, Metarhizium anisopliae and H. indica was proved superior to insecticidal application.

Graphical Abstract
Alterations to the Physico-Chemical Properties of Rice Grain upon Infection by False Smut Disease and Challenge Inoculation by the Native Bioagents
Authors: Sowmya V. , Maruthi P. , Devi G. Uma , Kumar J. Aravind , Rajanikant P. , Kannan C.
Published: July 2023

False smut caused by the flower-infecting fungus, Ustilaginoidea virens has become an important disease of rice seriously hampering quality and quantity of rice worldwide. Presently, rice false smut (RFS) was generally controlled by synthetic fungicides, which affect grain quality and human health upon consumption. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of native Biological Control Agents (BCAs) in managing false smut disease. The study included both in vitro and in vivo conditions to assess the ability of four native bioagents (Trichoderma asperellum strain TAIK 1, Bacillus cabrialesii strain BIK3, Pseudomonas putida strain PIK1, and Pseudomonas otitidis strain POPS1) in controlling the disease and also increasing the physicochemical properties of grain. The in vitro and in vivo evaluation revealed maximum inhibition of U. virens by consortia of BCAs by 67.54% over the control plants. Besides disease suppression, BCAs were found to be beneficial to rice as evidenced by the increase in the hulling, milling and head rice recovery, cooking quality, and nutritional qualities like total protein and amylose content. BCAs will be a management strategy for false smut disease.
Exploring the Benefits of Rice Husk Waste: Synthesis and Characterization of Biochar and Nanobiochar for Agricultural and Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Nagaraju K. , Prasad T. N. V. K. V. , Naidu M. V. S. , Chari M. Sreenivasa , Ramu Y. Reddi , Murthy B. Ramana
Published: July 2023

Rice husk waste is a significant byproduct of rice production in developing countries, with a vast annual production. This waste material has been extensively used as an adsorbent for various substances due to its adsorption capabilities. Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced through pyrolysis of biomass, has gained attention for its diverse applications in agriculture and the environment. In this study, rice husk biochar and nanobiochar were synthesized and characterized to explore their potential benefits for agricultural and environmental sustainability. The biochar was prepared by pyrolysis of rice husk at 500°C in a low-oxygen environment, followed by grinding and sieving. Nanobiochar was obtained by ball milling the biochar particles. The physical and physicochemical properties of both biochar and nanobiochar were evaluated, including bulk density (0.41 and 0.59 Mg m-3), particle density (0.49 and 0.54 Mg m-3), water holding capacity (168.6 and 178.5%), pH (8.4 and 7.3), electrical conductivity (0.31 and 0.45 dS m-1), cation exchange capacity (26.3 and 24.1cmol (p+) kg-1), volatile matter content (21.91 and 18.90%) and particle size distribution. Spectral analysis techniques such as DLS, FTIR, XRD, SEM and EDX were used to examine the size, zeta potential functional groups, crystallinity, porosity and elemental composition of the samples. The results showed that nanobiochar exhibited improved physical characteristics, such as higher porosity and water retention capacity, compared to biochar. The elemental composition and volatile matter content differed between the two materials. Nanobiochar also had significantly smaller particle size (11 nm) and a stable zeta potential. These findings suggest that rice husk nanobiochar has great potential for applications in soil fertility enhancement, adsorption of contaminants and waste management. The study contributes to the understanding of the properties and applications of rice husk waste-derived biochar and nanobiochar, promoting their utilization for sustainable agricultural and environmental practices.
Influence of Flower Inducer on Flowering, Yield and Fruit Quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Amrapali Planted under Different Spacing
Authors: Swain Laxmipriya , Swain Subash Ch. , Dash Satyanarayan , Mishra Antaryami , Kishore Kundan , Panda Rajendra Ku. , Padhi Soubindra Ku.
Published: July 2023

Flowering is the first of several events that lay the foundation for mango production every year. The temperatures below 15°C readily promote floral induction. Decrease in temperature below 20 0C is common in sub-tropical regions but seldom occurs in many tropical ones. So, an alternative strategy for optimum flower initiation under tropical condition is essentially required for increasing the productivity of plant. Among different strategies evolved, paclobutrazol and potassium nitrate application is effective not only in flower induction but also in early and offseason flower production in mango. Hence, an experiment was conducted to study the effect of paclobutrazol and potassium nitrate on the flowering, fruit yield and quality of Amrapali mango (Mangifera indica L.) plants grown under different plant spacings at Horticultural Research Station, OUAT, Bhubaneswar during 2018-19 and 2019-20. The experiment was laid out in a Factorial Randomized Block Design with 24 treatment combinations and 2 replications. The treatment combinations consist of four levels of spacings (2.0 x 2.0 m, 4.0 x 2.0 m, 4.0 x 4.0 m, 8.0 x 2.0 m) and 6 levels of chemical treatments (Paclobutrazol@0.25, 0.50 and 0.75 g a.i. per meter of canopy spread and KNO3@ 2% and 4%) and a control with water application.  The results revealed that plants spaced at 4.0 x 4.0 m with application of paclobutrazol 0.50 g a.i. recorded maximum flowering intensity (82.48%), fruit set percentage (6.47%) and yield (11.12 kg/tree). Whereas the fruit quality parameters like TSS, acidity, reducing sugar, total sugar, ß carotene content are not significantly influenced by either due to plant spacing or flower inducer such as paclobutrazol and potassium nitrate.