bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectrum of threats to nests of Yellow-wattled Lapwing Vanellus malabaricus in Kurukshetra outskirts-a case study
Authors: Gupta Rohtash Chand , Kaushik Tirshem Kumar
Published: April 2018

It is one thing that Red-wattled Lapwing Vanellus indicus is, rather a common bird on the outskirts of wheat harvested fields in outskirts of Kurukshetra, yet, Yellow-wattled Lapwing V. malabaricus (Boddaert, 1783) is an uncommon bird and seen rarely and that too with efforts and serious search. On the top of this, the bird is confronting most difficult conditions for its even rare existence. It is characterized by the presence of bright Yellow fleshy lappets above and in front of eyes. Black wings show off a white bar in flight. It has a little shorter staturecompared with that of Red-wattled Lapwing. Yellow-wattled Lapwing is available in only very specific spots like Sushant City, Harman City and Sector-8 in isolated conditions as single, double or 6-8 in Kurukshetra environs. Only one nest of Yellow-wattled Lapwing was observed on 28 April, 2011 in Sushant city in Kurukshetra. The nest was stuffed with straws and not by Pebbles. The clutch size was 4. It is pertinent to mention that all the four eggs hatched successfully on 24-25 May, 2011. Present observations suggest its’ alarming destruction in the last 5-8 years (2003-11). Now it has been pushed in a very delicate position wherefrom its extinction in a silent manner is sure, sooner than latter.
Evaluation of the mutagenic potential of propoxur and methyl parathion using polytene chromosomes of Anopheles stephensi
Authors: Chaudhry Asha , Bhinder Preety , Kumar Ram , Kaur Ravneet
Published: April 2018

The mutagenicity of two pesticides, propoxur and methyl parathion was evaluated by using polytene chromosomes of Anopheles stephensi. The results were based on the frequency of various structural aberrations encountered in the polytene chromosomes of the larvae treated with LC20 of propoxur and methyl parathion separately. Propoxur induced a total of 67 aberrations as against 15 in the controls while methyl parathion induced 53 aberrations as against 13 in the controls. These aberrations were dominated by inversions, translocations, deletions, ectopic pairing, asynapses, breaks, fusions and induced puffing. The frequency of propoxur induced aberrations was highest in chromosome 3R followed by 2R, 3L, 2L and X-chromosome. Methyl parathion induced highest number of aberrations in 2R followed by 2L, 3R, 3L and X-chromosomes. This study suggests that larval polytene chromosomes are sensitive indicators of pesticide genotoxicity in which both propoxur and methyl parathion are significantly chromotoxic for the genome of a mosquito taken as an experimental insect.
Study on eggs of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) during incubation in the controlled laboratory conditions
Authors: Bhagat R. A. Patil , Zade S. B. , Charde P. N.
Published: April 2018

Study on newly laid eggs of Japanese quail Coturnix coturnix japonica was undertaken for a period of 18 days on incubation in controlled laboratory conditions. The aim of the study was to evaluate the changes in egg weight, shell weight, yolk weight and embryo weight throughout the period of incubation. It had been found that as the embryo grows, the egg weight slowly goes down while embryo weight goes on increasing day by day. The study inferred that the shift or reduction in weight of egg is attributable to the progressive growth of embryo which utilizes its yolk contents for its growth. Apart from this, the shell weight also reduced from first day to last day in order to facilitate hatching of the embryo.
Chaetotaxy of three nymphal instars of an ischnoceran louse, Aegypoecus perspicuus (Phthiraptera: Insecta)
Authors: Agarwal G. P. , Ahmad Aftab , Arya Gaurav , Saxena Renu , Nisar Arjumand , Saxena A. K.
Published: April 2018

The present study on three nymphal instars of Aegypoecus perspicuus indicated that these differ from each other not only an size, abdominal segmentation, chitinization but also in the number of setae occurring on head, thorax and abdomen. The study also supplements informations regarding the morphological features and chaetotaxy of three nymphal instars of A. perspicuus, occurring on Neophron percnopterus. The diagnostic features of three nymphal instars have also been discussed.
Status of plankton diversity and biological productivity of Sahastradhara stream at Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Malik D. S. , Bharti Umesh
Published: April 2018

The present contribution encompasses on plankton and biological productivity as ecological indicator for identifying the ecological quality of Sahastradhara stream (between 27 km stream stretches), located in the Doon Valley of Garhwal region in India. Monthly sampling from all the sampling sites was made for a period of 12 months (May 2009 – April 2010) at 9:00-11: 00 AM. A total of 40 taxa from different classes of plankton and zooplankton were reported. The phytoplankton (32 sp.) was found being the most abundant taxa than zooplankton (9 sp.) inSahastradhara stream. Fluctuation in the phytoplankton density was recorded highest (1536 unit/l) during winter and lowest (20 unit/l) during monsoon. Zooplanktons were reported to be maximum (147 unit/l) during summer and minimum (3 unit/l) during monsoon. The total diatoms were reported highest (1022unit/l) during starting the winter and lowest (4 unit/l) during monsoon. Green algae and blue green algae were reported to be maximum during winter and minimum during summer. The Shannon-wiener diversity index calculated for the density ofBacillariophyceae (0.2180-0.366), Chlorophyceae (0.208-0.367) and Cyanophyceae (0.391-0.366) and correlation was made between Plankton biomass and physico-chemical parameters to analyses the relative features of the both variables. The density of plankton and biological productivity were influenced by disturbances in the photic zone and indiscriminate anthropogenic activities for tourist development resulted aquatic habitat degradation in stream ecosystem.
Drainage basin morphometric analysis and its relationship with altitude of Uttarkashi District
Authors: Naithani N. P. , Bhatt Mala
Published: April 2018

The area of investigation lies between Maneri and Gangnani along the Bhagirathi river in the lesser and central Himalayan block of Garhwal Himalayas. The rocks of Garhwal group are represented by quartzites, sericite quartzite’s and talc chlorite schist intruded by metabasics, whereas the Central crystallines are constituted by gneisses, schists, migmatites and amphibolites. For the purpose of drainage basin morphometric analysis 100 third order drainage basins were marked. Drainage basin morphometric parameters of 100 basins were calculated. On the basis of lithology and tectonic setup,the area was divided into three morphogenetic units viz Central crystallines, Thrust zone and Garhwal group. The basins which were situated below 2500 mts are categorized under low altitudes and above 2500 as basins of higher altitudes.The relationship between deainage basinmorphometric parameters and altitude suggest that basins situated at higher altitude have higher value of stream frequency, number of first and second order streams,fine texture and low drainage density.
Agronomic efficacy of compost manure and NPK fertilizer on some soil chemical properties and maize production in an ultisol environment
Authors: Law-Ogbomo K. E. , Osaigbovo A. U. , Ekwueme I.
Published: April 2018

Studies were conducted as an on-farm trial at Evboneka in 2009 and 2010 cropping seasons to estimate the effect of soil amendments in enhancing soil fertility status and relative agronomic efficacy of maize yield in humid ultisol environment. Effects of compost was investigated at application rates of 20 and 40 t ha-1 while NPK and organo-mineral fertilizer effects were investigated at 200 kg/ha and a combination of 100 kg/ha NPK and 20 t/ha compost manure (organo-mineral fertilizer) with maize TZEE-W cultivar resulting in five treatments and replicated three times. The results obtained revealed that the tested soil was low in organic matter, total N, available P, moderately acidic and low cations (Ca, Mg and K). The compost manure was rich in N, P, Mg, K, organic carbon and Ca concentration. The application of compost manure and NPK to the soil improved the soil fertility status. The highest maize height (132.70 cm), greatest total dry weight (0.63 t ha-1) and relative agronomic efficacy (%) were obtained from plots treated with 40 t/ha-1 compost manure while the plots treated with organo-mineral had the greatest LAI (2.75).
Growth pattern of Prinsepia. utilis (Bhenkal) at different girth classes growing naturally at inner Himalayan region
Authors: Singh Bhagat , Agarwal Arun K.
Published: April 2018

Present study was undertaken to evaluate the growth pattern of Prinsepia.utilis growing at Western Himalayan region at four study sites i.e. S1 (Jhala), S2 (Dharali), S3 (Jaspur) and S4 (Sukki) at Uttarkashi district at Garhwal Himalaya in the year 2008-09 The data recorded for different parameters related to growth of Prinsepia.utilis at different sites showed variation. Growth parameters viz. lengths of plants, branch number, length of seed, seed output etc. were examined during the present study. Maximum shoot length at 25.1-30 cm girth class (220.5±23.13 cm), maximum leaf area at girth class 5.1 – 10 cm (1.98) and the maximum fruit productivity at girth class 25.1 – 30 cm (1800.63g) were observed where as minimum production was recorded at girth class 10.1 – 15 cm (756.9g).
Effect of prostaglandin on reproduction in relation to pituitary gonadal axis in the fish, Cyprinus carpio (L.)
Authors: Dongre Veena , Dabhade R.C. , Khurad A. M.
Published: April 2018

Prostaglandins are a class of fatty acids which are “traditionally” associated with a variety of autocrine and paracrine functions in the vertebrate body. In many fishes, however, F prostaglandins also function as a hormone that stimulates sexual behavior. In the present study, F prostaglandin was used to assess the efficacy on reproductive behavior and spawning in relation to pituitary gonadal axis in the fish, Cyprinus carpio by administering different doses. Early maturity was observed in fish leading to courtship and spawning. The histological study of olfactory lobe, pituitary gland and gonads showed that the prostaglandin is also functioning as potent olfactory stimulants with sex pheromonal activity of the fish. F prostaglandin was metabolized and released into the water where it functions as a sex pheromone, stimulating male and female sexual behavior resulting into spawning. It was concluded that F prostaglandin acts as an inducer for successful breeding in the fish, C. carpio.
Fungicidal management of Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler causing blight of gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii H. Bolus ex J.D. Hook)
Authors: Nagrale Dipak T. , Gaikwad Anil P. , Goswami Sanjay , Sharma Lalan
Published: April 2018

Alternaria, the fungal pathogen has wide host range generally attacks the aerial parts of plants causing leaf spots and blights. Gerbera is a genus of ornamental flower plants. Gerbera plants are infected by many diseases. Different disease management practices are adopted in gerbera cultivation. The fungicidal management of Alternaria blight is one of the important strategies for the disease management in gerbera in polyhouse condition. In this study, preventive and curative fungicidal sprays were adopted for the management of blight disease in polyhouse. This study revealed that preventive fungicidal sprays were significant over curative fungicidal sprays for the management of Alternaria alternata blight of gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii H. Bolus ex J.D. Hook) in polyhouse. The preventive sprays made of Bordeaux mixture (0.6 %), tricyclazole (0.1%) and iprodione + carbendazim (0.1%) fungicides were found effective with 95.85 %, 96.59 % and 95.88 % disease control respectively, under polyhouse condition.
Role of antioxidative enzymes in toxic bloom forming Cyanobacteria
Authors: Tiwari Archana , Pandey Anjana
Published: April 2018

The antioxidative enzymes catalase and ascorbate peroxidase in toxic bloom forming cyanobacteria play a pioneer role in scavenging free radicals, which are generated as an outcome of photosynthesis and respiration. Ten Bloom forming toxic cyanobacterial strains Synechococcus elongates, Synechocystis aquatalis, Merismopedia glauca, Microcystis aeruginosa, M. aeruginosa (O), Arthrospira (=Spirulina) platensis, Nostoc paludosum, Anabaena iyengarii, A. variabilis and Cylindrospermum muscicola were isolated from natural blooms and purified. The results depict the significant activity of antioxidative enzymes. In A. platensis the activity of catalase (28.7 ± 2.3 mM/min/ìg protein), and Ascorbate peroxidase (1.91±0.12 mM/min/ìg protein) enzyme was maximum. It was also observed that the activity of ascorbate perooxidase was very less compared to activity of catalase. The growth analysis and pigment profile were also studied. Growth measurements revealed that cells attain maximum growth nearly after 15-20 days of inoculation except S. aquatalis, A. platensis and N. paludosum maximum, where optimum growth was achieved after 25th day. Chlorophyll-a content of A.platensis showed maximum concentration (14.47 ± 1.17 mg/L) and minimum concentration in S. elongates (2.30 ± 0.138 mg/L). The concentration of phycobiliproteins was found maximum in A. platensis (2.09 mg/ml). The detection of antioxidative potential of cyanobacterial strains will help to broaden the knowledge about their survival and can pave path for their utilization in biotechnology.
Correlation between fibre length characteristics and mechanical properties of Tectona grandis wood
Authors: Izekor D. N. , Fuwape J. A.
Published: April 2018

This study considered the relationship between fibre length characteristics and mechanical properties of Tectona grandis wood aged 15, 20 and 25-year. Six trees of even aged and similar class diameter were used for the study. Wood samples used for the study were systematically collected from three portions at 10, 50 and 90% of the tree height. The test samples were prepared along the radial positions from the pith to the bark. The relationship between fibre length and mechanical properties were examined using linear regression models and correlation coefficient. The results obtained from the correlation analysis carried out to examine the linear relationship between fibre length and mechanical properties of T. grandis wood were 0.924, 0.929 and 0.940 for MOR, MOE and CS parallel to grain. The relationship was highly significant (p < 0.05). Also the correlation coefficient (r) between fibre length and mechanical properties of T. grandis wood were highly significant (p < 0.001). Therefore, fibre length characteristics can be used as an index in predicting the mechanical properties of T. grandis wood.
Urban ecosystems of Kurukshetra, India, an amalgamations of eco-friendly, historical as well as archaeological adverse facades: A case study
Authors: Gupta Prem Kumari
Published: April 2018

Kurukshetra, a state of India is a historical place having global significance linked with its multifaceted aspects concerning education, science education, engineering colleges, museums and above all some sites and spots which are witnesses to the events of world famous war namely, “Mahabharata”. The studies reveal that urbanization processes have turned rural Kurukshetra into a modern semi-urban area with distinct urban features by creating “Urban Estates”. This is an activity which has two faces: Eco-friendly face and adverse ecological face.The generation of an attraction, ultra modern city equipped with vast green belts; impressive avenues having intense plantations of trees, bushes and profusely dotted with Civil Parks is a phenomenal change. One of the most impressive eco-friendly façade of the new environs is the ambience presence of orchards and plant nurseries and there is practice of “Kitchens-Waste” disposal which is disposed off at a safe place to convert it into organic manure. The best of sanitary conditions are in place which is one more environment friendly aspects. A very well laid out “Mini-Secretariat” encompassing virtually each and every office of the District Administration is intensely covered by very thick cover of trees and a new experiment, pioneered first by Haryana Govt.However, the negative features are many to negate the over all positive features. Foremost is related with discarding the traditional and endemic trees like Shisham Dalbergia sissoo, Neem Azadirachta indica, Beri Morus alba, Peepal Ficus religiosa, Banyan Ficus benghalensis and Mango Mangifera indica trees for tree plantations in favour exotic varieties.
Effect of temperature and surface area on adsorption of chlorine on different adsorbent carbons
Authors: Gupta Prem Kumari
Published: April 2018

Chlorine is used in several ways in industry. In such situations, where residual chlorine persists as pollutant, Activated carbons like animal charcoal, carbon black and coconut charcoal can serve as agents to remove residual pollutant “chlorine” by the process of adsorption. Five samples of Carbon black, six samples of active Carbons and two samples of charcoals were treated with a stream of chlorine @0.4 litre/hour at temperature varying from 300 to 1200 C. Chlorine is adsorbed partially physically and partially chemically. Percentage of the chemisorbed increases with rise in the temperature. Maximum percentages of chemisorptions occur at 1200 C while the maximum uptake, physical as well as chemical, takes place at 300 C, which was the lowest temperature. It is seen that activated carbon, carbon blacks and charcoal differ markedly by in their total chlorine uptake at 300 C. Activated carbons associated with high surface were seen to take up maximum chlorine. Fall in surface area is more in active carbons as compared to carbon black due to greater adsorption of chlorine. This probably shows that micro porous carbons are better adsorbent for chlorine adsorption. The unsaturated sites also play far dominant role and provide centres where the adsorption takes place predominantly. Uptake of chlorine is enhanced on evacuating the carbon samples at 6000 C and 10000 C. This is due to the creation of more unsaturated sites. Process of adsorption cum chemisorption takes place through different kinetic stages with different energetics. The activation energies keep on increasing with increasing amounts of chemisorption.
Immature stages of Plain Tiger, Danaus chrysippus chrysippus a rare butterfly of Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Rhopalocera: Danaidae)
Authors: Khatri T. C. , Khatri Tripta
Published: April 2018

The plain Tiger Danaus chrysippus chrysippus (Linnaeus) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Rhopalocera: Danaidae) is a widely distributed butterfly is rare in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The scarcity of food plant Calotropis in the islands is the reason for rarity. The immature stages of the butterfly are discussed in the paper with some unusual observations such as laying of eggs in cluster and on the upper side of food plant, showing stress on survival of the fly.
Effect of Nymphaea meal incorporated diets on growth, feed efficiency and body composition in fingerlings of Cyprinus carpio L.
Authors: Sivani G. , Reddy D.C. , Bhaskar M.
Published: April 2018

The effect of varying levels of Nymphaea leaf meal on the growth and survival of common carp, Cyprinus carpio was investigated. In a feeding trail of 45 days, three experimental diets containing nymphaea leaf meal at 300, 400 and 500g kg-1 level of incorporation were fed to triplicate groups of 10 fish each. The conventional feed used in India, consisting of a mixture of groundnut oil cake and rice bran in 1:1 ratio served as the control. Best growth in terms of weight gain (35.2g), specific growth rate (4.67), protein efficiency ratio (PER) (2.7), feed conversion ratio (FCR) (2.5) was obtained for the test diet with 400g kg-1 nymphaea meal inclusion level. However no statistical difference was observed between the three experimental diets. Digestive enzyme activity and digestibility studies also indicated the same pattern. Thus the results of the present study indicate that a diet of 300g kg-1 overall protein with nymphaea meal included at 400g kg-1 can elicit good growth response and survival in common carp.
A study on fungicides potential and incidence of sheath rot of rice caused by Sarocladium oryzae (Sawada)
Authors: Sharma Lalan , Nagrale D. T. , Singh S. K. , Sharma K. K. , Sinha A. P.
Published: April 2018

Sheath rot, Sarocdadium oryzae (Sawada) Gams. and Hawksw., has recently become a serious disease of rice when climatic conditions are unfavorable during flag sheath development. In this study systemic and nonsystemic fungicides were tested against S. oryzae. Maximum inhibition of radial growth (76.53%) was recorded at 10.0ppm of tebuconazole fungicides. In non-systemic fungicides, maximum inhibition of radial growth (78.86%) was recorded at 200.0ppm. Comparative efficacy of fungicides on sheath rot was tested during Kharif 2008-2009. Foliar spray of tebuconazole was found superior overall other treatments giving reduction in disease severity (59.01-64.33%), which was followed by followed by carbendazim (48.70-55.28%), and also increased grain yield per plant (45.06-65.84%), grain yield per plot (45.57-65.85%), 1000-grains weight (10.80-52.58%) and reduction in chaffiness (48.07-53.80%). Among non-systemic fungicides chorothalonil was found best in managing sheath rot, giving reduction in disease severity (35.68-38.85%), and also increased grain yield per plant (24.78-44.74%), grain yield per plot (24.52-44.57%), 1000-grains weight (4.25-35.47%) and reduction in chaffiness (15.74-45.96%) as compared to check. Another field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2009-10 to observe sheath rot incidence on rice cultivars in Tarai region. The incidence was recorded in thirty three varieties; only varieties (Type-3 and Basmati-370) were recorded as free from disease symptoms.
Culture and physiological variability in Rhizoctonia solani, responsible for foliar and lesions on aerial part of soybean
Authors: Sharma Lalan , Goswami Sanjay , Nagrale D. T.
Published: April 2018

Foliar blight of soybean is one of the major fungal diseases. Rhizoctonia solani isolated from soybean growing in tarai regions of Uttarakhand. Six isolates of R. solani has been characterized on the basis of cultural and physiological nature such as colony diameter, growth, colour and sclerotia formation were recorded. Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) was found best for growth and development. Two isolates (Lakhimpur and Pantnagar) covered the whole plates (90 mm) in 48 hrs. However, maximum number of sclerotia and weight was recorded on Czapek Dox agar medium. Overall radial growth supporting is recorded Corn Meal Agar Medium. Varied range of temperatures i.e. 10, 15, 25, 30, 35 and 400C was tested and found better growth of different isolates of R. solani at 10 - 400C, with an optimum growth temperature at 300C. Isolates were grown on five broth media (Asthana & Hawkers, Potato Dextrose Agar, Czapek’s Dox Agar, Corn Meal Agar and Richards Agar) for fresh, dry weight and oat meal broth culture filtrates of all isolates was used in phytotoxic effects. It recorded that maximum fresh and dry weight was observed on corn meal agar medium. The maximum reduction in radical and plumule length of germinating seeds were recorded in Haldichaur isolate.
Isolation and characterization of Fusarium oxysporum, a wilt causing fungus, for its pathogenic and non-pathogenic nature in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Joshi Mamta , Srivastava Rashmi , Sharma A. K. , Prakash Anil
Published: April 2018

Collection of soil and plant samples from nine different geographical locations in Uttar Pradesh state of India was made. Composite soil was analyzed for its nutrient status. A total of sixty isolates of Fusarium species were recovered from the soil and plant samples. Among these, thirty nine isolates were identified as Fusarium oxysporum on the basis of their morphological and molecular identification. The pathogenicity test was conducted on tomato variety Pant T-3, disease incidence ranged from zero to 78.74%. Among F. oxysporum isolates, five were non pathogenic and three were found strongly pathogenic.Non-pathogenic isolates were tested for their antagonistic effect against most pathogenic isolates of F. oxysporum. The results showed that the Isolate no. 40 showed the highest antagonistic activity in inhibiting radial growth of pathogenic isolates.
Description of a new species cephaline gregarine Stenophora bristili (Apicomplexa, Sporozoea) from Millipede (Chondromorpha severini) in Aurangabad district (M.S), India
Authors: Bhandari J. C. , Nikam S. V.
Published: April 2018

The study of the endoparasitic cephaline gregarine in the gut content of millipede (Chondromorpha severini) was found to be infested with a new species (Stenophora bristili) of genus Stenophora (Labee, 1899). It differs from all the earlier reported species. The shape of the body of cephalont small elongated, slightly curved and rounded posterior end. Potomerite consists of fine bundle of bristles. The Sporont is elongated curved, slightly tapering and rounded posterior end, having brush like broader in between protomerite and deutomerite, Nucleus isspherical with ecentric karyosome. The different developmental stages including cephalont, sporont, gametocyst and sporocyst have been observed.
Antifertility effects of Solanum xanthocarpum seeds on female albino rats
Authors: Singh S.P. , Singh Shiv Pratap
Published: April 2018

The effect of Solanum xanthocarpum seed powder as aqueous suspension on genital organs and fertility of female albino rats was studied at doses of 50, 100 & 150 mg/kg/day for 30 days.Tthe genital organ weight of albino rats was reduced significantly (P<0.05) after the treatment at 100 and 150 mg/kg doses of seed powder of S. xanthocarpum.for 30 days.The higher doses caused histopathological changes in the ovary and uterus leading to 100% control of fertility as no implants were recorded in treated female rats on the day 10th of pregnancy.
Morphological and cultural characterization of Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler blight of gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii H. Bolus ex J.D. Hook)
Authors: Nagrale Dipak T. , Gaikwad Anil P. , Sharma Lalan
Published: April 2018

Fungal blights are among the major concern for limiting the cultivation and production of many ornamental and flowering plants. Gerbera is an important cut flower with great export potential. However, it is infected by many pathogens in the protected cultivation. The severe infection of fungal blight caused by Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler was observed in the polyhouse condition. Hence, in this study, critical morphological and cultural studies were done to understand the pathogen behaviour. The fungus A. alternata produced profuse mycelium on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) with an average width of 4.42 ?m in diameter, conidiophores, conidia and intercalary chlamydospores measured as 42.26 x 4.29 ?m, 47.16 x 13.49 ?m and 7.22 ?m in diameter, respectively. The synthetic media viz., Leonions’s agar, Glucose-peptone agar and Sabourand’s agar and non-synthetic media, Oat meal agar and PDA were excellent for the mycelial growth and conidial production of A. alternata.
Occurrence of phthirapteran ectoparasite parasitizing on domestic dogs, Canis familiaris (Linne) in Jaunpur district (U.P.)
Authors: Rao Raj Mani , Chandra Suresh , Singh Suneel Kumar
Published: April 2018

Only two species of biting louse, Heterodoxus spiniger (Enderlein) (43.27%) and Trichodectes canis (De Geer) (13.47%) have been recorded from 245 dogs examined in twelve different localities in Jaunpur district during 2009 to 2011. Female dogs were found most prevalent in comparison to the male in both the cases. Different parameters like host sex, hair colour, hygienic condition, health and age group have been taken into the consideration during the survey. Older age groups, unhealthy and unhygienic condition of dogs were found more prone for the lice. In case of relative intensity of lice 38% were found moderately infested with H. spiniger while 23% and 16% were very light and light infested. Only 12% could be recorded heavy infested dog while 8% remained very heavy infested. Similar trends were recorded for T. canis where moderate infestation followed by very light, light, heavy and very heavy infestation respectively. Besides these two lice, some other ectoparasites (ticks, mites and fleas) (5.31%) were also recorded casually but not used the data for prevalence.
Ion funnel quadrupole time of Flight mass spectrometry: optimization for achieving all ion MS/MS and pseudo MSn
Authors: Marwah Padma , Marwah Ashok
Published: April 2018

An attempt has been made to study and understand Ion funnel technology for improved detection and measurement capabilities of ions originating from small molecules. Different ways to create and study collision induced fragments have been explored and strategies to achieve various kinds of all ions MS/MS have been discussed. We observed that stability of ions in the system is largely controlled by the funnel exit DC voltage and Rf voltages of the low pressure funnel also contributes to the collision induced dissociation of the ions. An appropriate mix of in source collision energy coupled with Funnel exit DC voltage and low pressure funnel Rf voltage can induce extensive fragmentation of the ions mimicking several stages of MS/MS simultaneously.
Soil aggregation dynamics and carbon sequestration
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Rawat Kisan Singh , Singh Jitendra , Singh Ashutosh , Rai Ashish
Published: April 2018

The quantity and quality of residues determine the formation and stabilization of aggregate structure for soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration. Plant roots and residues are the primary organic skeleton to enmesh the inorganic particles together and build macro- and microaggregates while sequestering SOC. There are three major organic binding agents of aggregation: temporary (plant roots, fungal hyphae, and bacterial cells), transient (polysaccharides), and persistent (humic compounds and polymers). Conversion of natural ecosystems into agricultural lands for intensive cultivation severely depletes SOC pools. Magnitude of SOC sequestration in the soil system depends on the residence time of SOC in aggregates. Microaggregates are bound to old organic C, whereas macroaggregates contain younger organic material. Many techniques have been used to assess the SOC distribution in aggregates. Classical methods include SOC determination in aggregate fractions by wet and dry sieving of bulk soil. Isotopic methods including the determination of 13C and 14C with mass spectrometry are techniques to quantify the turnover and storage of organic materials in soil aggregates. Other techniques involve the use of computed tomography, X-ray scattering, and X-ray microscopy to examine the internal porosity and interaggregate attributes of macro- and microaggregates. Current state-of-knowledge has not unravelled completely the underlying complex processes involved in the sequestration, stability, dynamics, and residence times of SOC in macro- and microaggregates. There is a need to develop a unique conceptual model of aggregate hierarchy.
An overview of integrated power supply system: Solution to Nigeria’s electricity problem
Authors: Senbanjo A. A. , Coker J.O.
Published: April 2018

This work traces the causes of electricity problem in Nigeria to inadequate power generation. Though other militating factors such as faulty transmission and distribution systems were highlighted, the study insists that the major contributing factor to the epileptic electric power supply in the country is due to the inadequate power generation system currently in place. The study further proposes an integrated powers supply system whereby several sources of primary energy are harnessed and combined to give a robust generation system, as the solutionto the epileptic power supply in the country. The study further recommends that the reactivation and repairs of the country’s power transmission and distribution networks, is germane to the attainment of this goal.
Physiological attributes of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) influenced by different sources of nutrients at foothill of eastern Himalayan region
Authors: Chatterjee Ranjit
Published: April 2018

The present investigation was aimed to assess the influence of different organic manures (Farmyard manure and vermicompost), inorganic fertilizers and Azophos biofertilizer on different physiological attributes of tomato. The field experiment was conducted during 2005-06 and 2006-07 at Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya (UBKV), Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India by combining 14 treatments in randomized block design with 3 replications. The results revealed that nutrient sources significantly influenced different physiological attributes as the chlorophyll content of leaves and LAI (Leaf area index) kept on increasing and peaked at 60 DAT(Days after transplanting) and 75 DAT respectively and declined thereafter. The dry matter production was highest at 75 DAT. Again application of vermicompost (4 t/ha) with 75% of inorganic fertilizers inoculated with biofertilizer resulted in significant improvement of physiological attributes as well as yield. Vermicompost emerged as better organic nutrient source over farmyard manure. Inoculation with biofertilizer exerted more positive results over uninoculated treatments and benefits of biofertilizer application were more in presence of vermicompost as compared to farmyard manure.
Biodiversity of rodent fleas in plague endemic areas of India
Authors: Shelly M. , Biswas S. , Reddy M. S. , Lal Sohan
Published: April 2018

Rodent fleas have been considered as the main vector for plague transmission in the rodent population and human plague outbreak usually occur due to the close association of infected rodent fleas with the human being. A total of 910 fleas were retrieved from the 2128 rodents collected from the different areas like Kolar, Palamner, Pune, Surat, Rohru and Chennai. Mainly two types of rodent fleas i.e. Xenopsyalla astia and X. cheopis were found in these areas except the Dodra Kawar area of H.P. state. In Dodra Kawar area Neopsylla kawar specieswere found and it was very sensitive to the temperature variation. Dodra kawar area usually remains under snow for about nine months and even in the rest of period the maximum temperature does not go more than 20oC. The distribution of X. astia and X. cheopis were found uneven. In surat of Gujarat state X. cheopis was predominantly high, whereas in rest of the area X. astia were found more. In Chennai the main species found was X. astia only. The female percent of rodent flea may be considered as a good indicator for the fast propagation of rodent flea. The breading season for the fleas mostly depends on the climatic condition like temperature below 22oC-25oC, humidity more than 70% even if the outside temperature is more still the shady area the favorable and do help in the survival of fleas. The rapid urbanization and mass use of pesticide in agriculture sector has got significant impact on the rodent flea population and development of resistance to pesticides.
Studies on pollinator fauna and their relative abundance of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) at Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Goswami Vimla , Khan M. S. , Usha Usha
Published: April 2018

Pollinators provide key services to both natural and agricultural ecosystems. Agricultural productivity depends, in part on pollinator populations from adjacent semi natural habitats.The diversity and abundance of different insect visitors on sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) were studied at Pantnagar. A total of 12 insect visitors belonging to order Hymenoptera (9), Diptera (1), Lepidoptera (1), and Coleoptera (1) were observed visiting the blossom of sunflower. The abundance (percentage of insect/m2/2min.) of Hymenopterans were maximum (86.09%) followed by the Dipterans (22.80 %) and others (3.87%). In Hymenopterans, the honeybees (Apis bees) were observed maximum (65.22 %) followed by non Apis bees (20.39 %) and the scolid wasp (1.69 %).
Growth responses of aquatic hyphomycetes to different sources of carbon and nitrogen
Authors: Bisht Saraswati
Published: April 2018

Assessment of different sources of carbon and nitrogen in terms of dry weight biomass of four selected aquatic hyphomycetes viz; Flagellospora penicilloides Ingold, Pestalotiopsis submersus Sati and Tiwari, Tetrachaetum elegans Ingold and Tetracladium marchalianum De Wildeman was made for their nutritional requirements. Eight carbon sources and ten nitrogen sources were singly added to the basal media in order to provide 4g of carbon and 1g of nitrogen per litre of distilled water. Among carbon compounds glucose and sucrose were found to be most suitable sources of carbon for all the four fungal isolates, where as fructose proved good for T. marchalianum, P. submersus and F.penicilloides fairly. Cellulose was found a poor source of carbon for the growth of all these isolates. The inorganic sources of nitrogen were found as good nitrogen sources with preference for ammonium ions. Suitability of amino acids was found variable from species to species for nitrogen. T.elegans and T.marchalianum had their maximum growth in asparagines, whereas, P. submersus had their highest growth in proline. Cysteine was observed as a good source of nitrogen for almost all the fungal isolates used. Anova calculated for these observed data showed significant variations in the dry weight production of different fungal species grown in different sources of carbon and nitrogen(P<0.01).
First report on the occurrence of plasticolous lichens from Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Jagtap Vineeta , Tripathi Manish , Joshi Yogesh
Published: April 2018

The paper documents the distribution of three species [Hyperphyscia adglutinata (Flörke) H.Mayrhofer and Poelt, Paromotrema austrosinense (Zahlbr.) Hale and Punctelia subrudecta (Zahlbr.) Hale] of lichens from 14 years old nylon nets collected from Govind Ballabh Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development (G.B.P.I.H.E.D.) located in temperate region of Central Himalaya. These three species were previously reported as corticolous and saxicolous, but for the first time are reported as plasticolous.
Studies on influence of genotypic diversity on yield, quality and incidence of white fly and yellow mite in Capsicum annuum L.
Authors: Datta S. , Chakraborty G.
Published: April 2018

A field experiment was conducted with fifty one chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) genotypes to study the growth, yield, quality characters, white fly and yellow mite incidence during Rabi season of 2007-08 and 2008-09. The data on growth, yield performance, quality characters and pest incidence revealed significant variation among the different genotypes. Significantly the highest number of fruits per plant was recorded in genotype CA-29 (168.23) and it was lowest in genotype CA-2 (52.30) and it was statistically at par with genotypes CA - 15 (56.09) and CA-43 (56.20). Like number of fruits per plant, the significantly highest fresh yield was recorded in CA-29 (14.58 t/ha). Higher fruit yield was also recorded in genotype CA - 47 (13.35 t/ha) and CA-48 (13.18 t/ha). Ascorbic acid content in red ripe fruit varied from 75.89 to 167.21 mg/100 g fresh. The highest capsaicin content in the red ripe fruit was recorded in genotype CA -17 (1.13 %) followed by CA-4 (1.07%) and it was lowest in CA-7 (0.33%). Genotype CA - 45 was almost free from white fly incidence and lower incidence was also recorded in genotype CA-43 (0.40 /plant) followed by CA - 23 (0.50 / plant) and CA - 21 (8.10/ plant) was found most susceptible to white fly incidence. Among the different genotypes, CA - 22, CA - 24, CA - 25, CA - 27 and CA - 30 were free from mite infestation where as CA - 13 (13.60/leaf) was most susceptible to yellow mite incidence.
Analysis of bioactive phytochemicals and evaluation of antioxidant activity of a medicinal plant, Boerhaavia diffusa L.
Authors: Malhotra Deepti , Ishaq Fouzia , Khan Amir , Gupta A. K.
Published: April 2018

Boerhaavia diffusa L. (Family: Nyctaginaceae) commonly known as Punarnava is an herbaceous, spreading vine widely distributed in the tropical and subtropical regions in the world. The plants are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, protein and carbohydrate. The present study was carried out to determine the concentration of some bioactive phytochemicals (ascorbic acid,carotenoids, total phenolics, protein and carbohydrate) and their antioxidant activity in punarnava. Results showed the values for ascorbic acid (16.75±1.72 and 18.86±1.12 mg/100g of Fresh Weight), carotenoids (1.36±0.10 and 1.98±0.11 ìg/g of Fresh Weight), protein (122.975±6.27 and 134.45±6.23 mg/g of dry weight) and carbohydrate (56.67±5.77 and 60.11±5.23 mg/g of dry weight) for aqueous and methanolic of root extracts of B.diffusa respectively. Methanolic root extracts showed greater antioxidant activity than the aqueous extracts using DPPH method.
Seasonal variation of the nematode Camallanus anabantis in the fish Anabas testudineus in Loktak Lake, Manipur, India
Authors: Ranibala Th , Shomorendra M. , Kar Devashish
Published: April 2018

The present paper deals with the study of the seasonal variation on the occurrence of the Nematode Camallanus anabantis from the fish host Anabas testudineus from Loktak Lake, Manipur during May 2010- April 2011. A total of 460 number of A. testudineus has been sampled for the parasite infection and 335 fishes (71 %) has been found to be infected with the nematode thereby indicating high prevalence of infection of the nematode parasites in the fish.
Prevalence of Menopon gallinae Linn. (Insecta, Phthiraptera, Menoponidae, Amblycera) upon poultry birds (Gallus gallus domesticus) of selected locality of district Chamoli Garhwal (Uttarakhand), India
Authors: Arya Surman , Negi Sandeep , Singh Suneel Kumar
Published: April 2018

Prevalence and intensity of infestation of Menopon gallinae (Linn.) was recorded from 688 poultry birds belonging to 30 selected locality of district Chamoli (Uttarakhand) during March, 2012 to February, 2013, out of which 310 were found infested (45.06%). Prevalence rate were higher in female (46.8%) than male (42%) birds in present investigation. Higher infestation were noted in certain parameters like captivity (larger group), poor health, poor hygienic condition, poor feather condition, black feather colour, desi breed and older birds. Singly reared, good health, good hygienic condition, good feather condition, mix colour, broiler breed and younger poultry birds were found to have least infestation. Intensity of infestation was noted by coding system. Maximum poultry bird bore very light (VL) infestation (29.68%) while very few were found with very heavy (VH) infestation (4.52%). Relative monthly intensity of infestation remained more or less similar in all the categories. Lice were peaked during summer in comparison to the winter. Strong positive correlation existed between monthly lice index and temperature (+0.79); lice index and photoperiod (+0.84), while the same were found insignificant with humidity (-0.23) and rainfall (-0.17).
Prevalence and severity of dental fluorosis in some endemically afflicted villages of district Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Authors: Arya Sunil , Gazal Sehrish , Raina Anil K.
Published: April 2018

A cross-sectional study was conducted among the residents of three villages of Doda district, J&K. A total of 391 individuals (202 males and 189 females) were examined from 60 households by house to house survey for recording the prevalence and severity of dental fluorosis by using Dean’s Index (1942) along with WHO health assessment form (1997b) and Community fluorosis Index. Of the total studied population 299 (76.47%) have found to be affected with various grades of dental fluorosis with moderate (33.5%) level of fluorosis to be the most frequent category observed. Prevalence of dental fluorosis was more in males (86.61%) than females (63.49%). No significant relation (P>0.05) between prevalence of dental fluorosis to the socioeconomic status was found. Community fluorosis Index was found to be 2.05 which denotes “marked” category of public health significance. High prevalence and high community fluorosis Index suggest that fluorosis is a major public health problem in the area.
Preliminary studies on different extracts of some honey bee products
Authors: Kaur Rajinder , Kalia Preeti , Kumar Neelima R. , Harjai Kusum
Published: April 2018

The aim of present study was to compare the phytochemical composition of different extracts of bee pollen, propolis and honey and to analyse the best solvent for maximum phytochemicals extraction. These preliminary studies are significant in locating the pharmacological bioactive compounds in different extracts of bee products. The tests showed greater number of constituents present in bee pollen and propolis as compared to honey. The concentration of these bioactive constituents was greater in ethanolic extract of propolis and water extract of bee pollen and honey. Ethanolic extract of propolis showed higher concentration of tannins and glycosides. Bee pollen had more concentration of saponins, flavonoids and proteins in water extract. Reducing sugars and carbohydrates were present in larger amount in water extract of honey. These studies will be useful to select the best solvent for honey, pollen and propolis for various research purposes.
Field efficacy of formulation of fungal bioagents against bacterial leaf blight of rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Uyeda and Ishiyama) Dowson
Authors: Gangwar Gokil Prasad
Published: April 2018

In the present study, Trichoderma harzianum, T. hamatum, T. virens and three isolates of Trichoderma spp. were evaluated for their comparative efficacy against bacterial leaf blight of rice, under field conditions. All the bioagent formulations were significantly effective in reducing disease severity over check during Kharif season 2006 and 2007. T. harzianum was found to be most effective and resulted 48.26 and 59.22 % reduction in disease severity during Kharif season 2006 and 2007, respectively. Maximum increase in grain yield (16.21%) was recorded with T. harzianum followed by isolate 40 (14.58%), during Kharif season 2006. Whereas during Kharif season 2007, maximum increase in grain yield (18.95%) was recorded with T. harzianum which is followed by T. virens (14.65%) and isolate 40 (12.57 %). Present study revealed that T. harzianum (isolated from rice phylloplane) was found to be most effective in reducing disease severity and increasing grain yield as compared to other isolates obtained from different sources.
Characterization of a bacterial collar and rhizome rot of banana (Musa paradisiaca) caused by strains of Erwinia chrysanthemi pv. paradisiaca
Authors: Nagrale Dipak T. , Borkar Suresh G. , Gawande Shailesh P. , Mandal Asit K. , Raut Satish A.
Published: April 2018

A serious collar and rhizome rot disease of banana was observed in the north region of Maharashtra state in post rainy season. The disease was caused by the bacterial strains of Erwinia chrysanthemi pv. paradisiaca identified and characterized by morphological, physiological, biochemical and pathogenicity tests. The infection occurred on new banana plantation of one month old in poorly drained soil. In post rainy season, banana plantations of 8 to 10 weeks were found severely infected. E. chrysanthemi pv. paradisiaca produced soft rot symptom onhealthy banana rhizomes within three weeks. Two strains were isolated from the collar and rhizome rotted diseased samples which were similar in morphological, physiological and biochemical characteristics, however they differed in the virulence aggressiveness to cause the disease in banana. Strain II caused soft rot symptoms within 19 days, however strain I produced it within 23 days of inoculation with suspension of 3×108 CFU ml-1. The result of this study revealed that strain II was more aggressive as compared to strain I of E. chrysanthemi pv. paradisiaca.