Volume-11, Issue-4, April 2025

Abstract

Currently, diseases are mainly managed by chemical pesticides. The use of these chemical pesticides causes environmental problems because they do not undergo biodegradation or degrade very slowly. Therefore, minimizing the use of pesticides has gained importance. To achieve this goal, biological control methods can be effectively combined with other disease control methods. Trichoderma sp. Soil-borne filamentous fungi are effective biocontrol agents against plant pathogens. The present investigation isolated antagonistic organisms and determined the antifungal activity of the antagonistic organisms in HPLC fractions of the mycelial extract. The antifungal activity of HPLC fractions of the mycelial extract were collected in separate vials; thereby, these HPLC fractions of the mycelial extract were analyzed by FT-IR, and many antibiotic compounds were identified. The FT-IRresults were then confirmed by GC-MS.

Keywords: GC-MS, Biocontrol, Trichoderma, FT-IR, HPLC

References

References not available

Abstract

Four bud fly-resistant germplasm lines viz., EC-1424, GS-234, IC-15888, and JRF-5 were crossed with three testers (Neelum, Neela, and Shekhar) in aline × tester mating design to develop 21 F₁ and 21 F₂ crosses. The study was undertaken to estimate combining ability and heterosis in linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) for bud fly infestation, seed yield, and related traits. The analysis of variance for general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) was highly significant in both F₁ and F₂ generations.

Based on per seperformance and GCA effects, the best general combiners identified in both F₁ and F₂ generations were Neela for days to flowering and bud length; IC-15888 for sepal thickness, maturity duration, and bud fly infestation at the dough stage; Shekhar and Neela for grains per capsule; Neela for test weight; GS-234 and Neelum for oil content. However, no common general combiner was found for bud width, capsules per plant, and seed yield per plant across both generations. For capsules per plant, Shekhar was a good combiner only in the F₁ generation.

Heterosis over the superior parent for bud fly infestation at the dough stage ranged from –99.03% (EC-1424 × JRF-5) to – 48.59% (Shekhar × Neelum) in the F₁ generation. Out of 21 crosses, 20 crosses exhibited significant negative economic heterosis for this trait. The top five promising crosses were EC-1424 × JRF-5, EC-1424 × Neela, GS-234 × IC-15888, GS-234 × JRF-5, and IC-15888 × Shekhar. Only one cross (EC-1424 × Shekhar) showed significant positive heterosis for bud fly infestation.

For seed yield per plant, heterosis over the economic parent ranged from 28.64% (JRF-5 × Neelum) to 51.90% (Shekhar × Neelum) in the F₁ generation. Among all crosses, six crosses exhibited significant positive heterosis. These cross combinations may serve as potential genetic resources in future linseed breeding programs aimed at improving yield and bud fly resistance.

Keywords: Combining ability, Heterosis Line × Tester, Linseed

References

References not available

Abstract

The success in the use of rock dust as a non-chemical fertilizer, being a great vitoria of biodynamic agriculture, has led to an interesting amount of investigations, mainly with a highly theoretical bias, often without discussing common trade-offs in agriculture such as the fact that the larger soil breathing increases the problem of potential carbon loss and the highest sodium concentration increases the problem of the risk of soil sodification.

Researchers found that the correction of soil nutritional deficiencies can also be achieved with the application of finely ground rock types such as natural phosphates, gypsum, mafic and ultramafic rocks emais recentemente as silicate rocks, and more recently silicate rocks, due to their abundance and the ease with which they can be found in the form of fine residues from the moulding process in the canteras. The idea of these researchers is that the carrier rocks are full of nutrients, particularly K, Ca and Mg, and therefore laboratory tests are not necessary.

In other words, most researchers avoid joint analysis (rocks and soils), in particular geochemicals and mineral analysis, because the easiest part of the work is to show, through literature reviews, the great advantages of sostenible fertilizers, in particular as regards highly degraded soils, putting special emphasis on strong soil remineralization and soil pH balance, in contrast to the high cost and harmful impact of chemical fertilizer industry on Global Global Warming, in proportion similar to fuel fuels.

In addition they do not consider rock dust as a Biodinamic Homemade fertilizer. The difficulty of cooperatives engaging in the acquisition of crushing machines depends on a closer relationship with agricultural entitles to analyze both rocks and soils (compatibility examination) besides the union among farmers for formation in this “novelty” and subsequent construction of crushing machines in their own farms.

For this reason, the research question is how culture relates to knowledge and intelligence in order to know what type of culture we have to build for effective Bio-dynamic agriculture.

Therefore, this work brings two research models that feed each other.

In addition to the Culture-Knowledge-Intelligence (CKI) model, this article presents a Bio-dynamic Agriculture model, a mature way of better using the resources available on the farm itself. The study concluded that this model is useful for small farmers to learn, through cooperatives, home-made farming practices, such as rock dust as a new fertilizer mixed or not with cattle manure.

Keywords: Family farming, cooperatives, knowledge management, cultural intelligence, local solutions

References

References not available

Abstract

Rats are recognized as key reservoirs and potential transmission sources of leptospirosis. Despite this, limited data exist on the prevalence of Leptospira spp. among rats in urban villages of the Philippines. This study aimed to assess the presence of Leptospira spp. in rats from an urban village in Benguet Province. Urine samples from 50 rats were analyzed using Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assays. Results showed a Leptospira spp. detection rate of 30% using LAMP and 18% using PCR. DNA sequencing confirmed the presence of Leptospira interrogans serovar Icterohemorrhagiae, suggesting that rats may playa significant role in leptospirosis transmission in the study area. Diagnostic performance analysis revealed that LAMP and PCR had substantial agreement, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.677. Compared to PCR, LAMP demonstrated a diagnostic sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 85.37%. These findings underscore the importance of continuous monitoring of rodent populations in urban settings and highlight the potential utility of LAMPas a rapid screening tool for leptospiral infections.

Keywords: Prevalence, Leptospira spp., Rats, LAMP, PCR

References

References not available

Abstract

An experiment was carried outwith two varieties of chickpea-IC265291 (V1) and IC265298 (V2) which were obtained from NBPGR, New Delhi to study the Heritability, correlation and Genetic advance as percent of the mean for 11 quantitative characters. Healthy & Uniform seeds of two varieties of chickpea were treated with different concentrations of chemical mutagen EMS (Ethyl Methyl Sulfonate) viz:0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5% and 0.6%.The seeds were grown in petri plates and seed survival rate and seedling characters were studied. The EMS-treated seeds along with the control (untreated) seeds were sown in the field at CPMB (Centre for Plant Molecular Biology), Osmania University, Hyderabad. The result of the study, revealed that all the characters understudy were shown significant phenotypic and genotypic correlations with seed weight except days to flower initiation, days to 50% flowering and days to pod maturity. In Chickpea, Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV) for all the traits is found to be higher than Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV).For the traits Number of branches per plant, Number of pods per plant, Pod weight per plant, Number of seeds per plant and 100 seed weight-Heritability(h2) and Genetic Advance(GA) are found to be higher. These are the most important traits that can be utilised for the improvement of seed yield in chickpea.

Keywords: Chickpea, Heritability, Genetic Advance, Correlation, Induced EMS

References

References not available

Abstract

Introduction: Spinel ferrite nanoparticles (Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles/SPIONs) semiconductors have been broadly reported to kill bacteria outside the human body. SPIONs as photocatalytic agents in coloring dye water treatment have different mechanisms, it’s a redox reaction. SPIONs as MRI agents have the same principle as bacteria killer, to emit electromagnetic waves. Winning against the high prevalence of MODs and sepsis is the aim of this study. Method: Review article of Ex/Em SPIONs semiconductor in Photothermal Therapy (PTT).

Result: Table of 16 references which support SPIONs as New Generation (NG) antibiotic to kill resistant bacteria inside the body.

Discussion: Moringa oleifera gold composite NPs vs. NGbeta-lactams. SPIONs green synthesis gold composite NPs are used as photothermal therapy (PTT) based on inducing hyperthermia to kill bacteria inside the body: NG MDR eradication. Conclusion: PTT therapy achieved with SPIONs, under NIR, is used to kill MDR, XDR, TDR micro-bacteria, fungi and cancer cells inside the human body.

Keywords: Splenectomy, Moringa oleifera, Ferrite NPs, Antimicrobia resistant, Inside the body, PTT

References

References not available

Abstract

The global bioplastics and biopolymers market size is expected to grow from USD 10.5 billion in 2020 to USD 27.9 billion by 2025, Bioplastics and Biopolymers Market by Type (Non-Biodegradable/Bio-Based, Biodegradable), End-Use Industry (Packaging, Consumer Goods, Automotive and Transportation, Textiles, Agriculture and Horticulture), and this high growth is driven primarily by the growth of the global packaging end-use industry. Food packaging has a crucial function in the modern food industry. New food packaging technologies seek to meet consumers' and industrial demands. Changes related to food production, sale practices and consumers’ lifestyles, along with environmental awareness and an advance in new areas of knowledge such as biotechnology, act as driving forces to develop smart packages that can extend food shelf-life. Food producers gradually demand effective quality control procedures to satisfy and regulate consumer requirements to enhance production feasibility, automation, quality sorting and decrease the time and cost of production. Biosensors can be used to identify food allergens and pathogens rapidly and efficiently. It can also overcome all these disadvantages by offering quick, inexpensive and non-destructive procedures for quality control.

Keywords: Bioplastics, Biopolymers, Packaging, Biosensors, Allergens, Pathogens

References

References not available

Abstract

The present research aims to investigate the role of convenience orientation, time scarcity, cooking skills, sensory appeal, nutritional quality, safety consciousness, health consciousness, perceived price, product information, processing technology and packaging quality on purchase intention and consumption of branded bread. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 500 consumers across four universities of Haryana, India. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were used to analyse the data. The factor loading, cronbach’salpha, composite reliability, average variance extracted and correlations estimates demonstrate good internal consistency and reliability of questionnaire as well as convergent and discriminant validity of measurement model. The model fit indices demonstrate good fit of measurement and structural models. The path analysis of structural model reveal that convenience orientation (ß=0.84); sensory appeal (ß=0.73); nutritional quality (ß=0.69); safety consciousness (ß=0.70); health consciousness (ß=0.82); perceived price (ß=0.61); time scarcity (ß=0.75); lack of cooking skills ( ß=0.59); packaging quality (ß=0.77); product information (ß=0.86); and processing technology (ß=0.81) were positively related with purchase intention and consumption of branded bread. Convenience orientation, health consciousness, processing technology and product information/labeling were the key determinants influencing consumer’spurchase intention and consumption of branded bread in an academic environment.

Keywords: Branded bread; determinants; purchase intention; consumption; SEM

References

References not available

Abstract

Helicoverpa armigera Hubbner has been recognized as one of the most significant agricultural pest and causes damage to tomato fruit crops. Globally, India ranks second in tomato production. 8,14,000 hectares of agricultural land utilized for tomato cultivation, with a net productivity of 20.40 million tonnes in 2022-23. Both chemical and biological methods are employed for crop protection. This research examines various pesticides and bio-pesticides, determining their effectiveness based on LC50 values. The study identifies commonly used synthetic and bio-pesticides in farming, including Coragen (Chlorantraniliprole 18.5%), Acrobat (Dimethomorph 50% WP), Indofin M-45 (Mancozeb 75% W/W) and Tandav (Alkaloid: 10%, Benzanine: 12%). The research reveals that Chlorantraniliprole, Spinosad, Indoxacarb, and Emamectin benzoate show notable results in controlling pest infestations. The combination of Thiamethaxim and Chlorantraniliprole demonstrates the highest efficacy in managing pest populations. Bio-pesticides derived from Jatropha, Beauveria bassiana, and Neem seed extract exhibit a high larval mortality rate of 86%. Beauveria bassiana, Bacillus spp., Serratia spp., and Pseudomonas spp. are also effective bio-pesticides. Trichogramma spp. is found to be the parasitoid of Helicoverpa armigera, destroying pest eggs before they hatch and their predator species of pestinclude Chrysopids and ant species such as Pheidole spp. and Iridomyrmex spp. are effective as biological control of tomato fruit borer.

Keywords: Helicoverpa armigera, Synthetic Pesicides, Bio-Pesticides, Plant-Insect interaction, Chemical control, Bio-control

References

References not available

Abstract

The regions of Southeast Asia generate significant quantities of underused agro-industrial residues that include sago hampas and rice bran and palm kernel cake (PKC) and cassava peels while these materials hold substantial nutritional value. This review is prepared in accordance with PRISMA guidelines examines current research (2015–2025) about transforming agricultural leftovers into improved animal feed through solid-state fermentation (SSF). Thirty-three relevant studies examined microorganisms such as Aspergillus, Trichoderma and Bacillus and lactic acid bacteria together with fermentation conditions that improved animal nutritional quality alongside performance outcomes. During SSF the protein content increased by up to 30–35% in PKC while fiber fractions decreased specifically cellulose and hemicellulose and anti-nutrient effects were observed with cyanogenic glycosides and phytates reduction. The study identified fermented PKC together with rice bran as protein concentration feeds which benefit both monogastric and ruminant animals and fermented cassava peels alongside sago hampas function as digestible energy sources through supplementary nitrogen use. The fermentation process through SSF led to various co-benefits which improved digestive capacities and gut health together with elevated feed conversion for poultry, swine, fish and ruminant livestock. The utilization of SSF faces ongoing operational hurdles because fermentation needs scale-up alongside microbial safety controls and feed maintenance stability. The sustainability solution of SSF meets circular agriculture'scriteria through waste transformation for animal feed production while decreasing imported ingredient use and protecting the environment. The research evidence indicates that implementing SSF technology throughout Southeast Asia requires government backing together with staff training sessions and the establishment of scalable technological solutions to support broader adoption.

Keywords: Agro-industrial Waste, Animal Feed, Protein Enrichment, Sago Hampas, Solid-State Fermentation (SSF)

References

References not available

Abstract

Nanotechnology has emerged as a revolutionary approach in agriculture, offering innovative solutions for managing biotic and abiotic stresses while simultaneously promoting soil health. Plants are constantly exposed to a variety of biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) stresses in their environment. Biotic stresses, primarily caused by pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and pests, pose substantial challenges to global food security. Nanotechnology offers precise tools for disease management through the development of nanoherbicides, nanofungicides and nanoemulsions. Abiotic stresses, including drought, salinity, heavy metals, and extreme temperatures, exert detrimental effects on crop productivity. Nanomaterials, such as nanosensors and nanofertilizers, playa pivotal role in alleviating these stressors by improving nutrient and water use efficiency. Nanosensors facilitate real-time monitoring of environmental conditions, allowing for precise and timely interventions. Nanofertilizers, on the other hand, enable controlled nutrient release, reducing wastage and minimizing adverse environmental impacts. Nanotechnology guarantees site-specific delivery of nutrients to the specific region within the plant, minimizing losses and enhancing effectiveness. The smaller dimensions of nanomaterials provide a larger surface area for pesticides and fertilizers, increase their bioavailability, significantly improve disease and pest management in crops, and effectively address the limitations associated with conventional pesticide application. Also, the creation of nano enzymes has transformed the way plants manage stress, as they function as highly effective antioxidant enzymes. These nano enzymes have gained significant traction in combating salinity tolerance in recent times. For instance, cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria) coated with polyacrylic have demonstrated efficient elimination of hydroxyl radicals. In addition to stress management, nanotechnology also contributes to enhancing soil health. Nanoparticles and nanocomposites improve soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability. Furthermore, the enhanced mobility of nutrients in nanoscale formulations minimizes leaching and runoff, reducing the risk of water pollution. Nanotechnology represents a promising paradigm in agriculture for managing biotic and abiotic stresses, enhancing soil health, and ensuring sustainable crop production.

Keywords: Nanotechnology in agriculture, Biotic stress management, Abiotic stress management, Soil health, Nanofertilizers, Nanosensors, Nanopesticides, Nanoherbicides, Nanozymes, Nanomaterials

References

References not available

Abstract

The study was conducted in Sri Ganganagar district of Rajasthan, selecting Sri Ganganagar and Sri Karanpur tehsils due to their extensive sugarcane cultivation. With support from agriculture and revenue officials, five major sugarcane-growing villages from each tehsil were identified, totaling ten villages. A categorized list of small, marginal, and large farmers was prepared with help from village Patwaris and agricultural supervisors. From this, 120 sugarcane growers were randomly selected to serve as respondents for the investigation. The study found that 58.33per cent of respondents had a medium level of adoption, 25per cent had a high level, and 16.66per cent had alow level. The highest adoption was seen in practices requiring less expertise, such as recommended spacing (80.83per cent) and harvesting methods (80per cent). However, lower adoption was observed in seed treatment (38.33per cent) and soil treatment for disease prevention (36.67per cent). A significant positive relationship was found between annual income and landholding, while age, education, family type, and size showed no significant impact on adoption.

Keywords: Adoption levels, sugarcane farmers, recommended practices, correlation and factors influencing adoption

References

References not available

Abstract

The infestation of diamondback moth was started from the 2nd SMW and reached its peak in 8th SMW during the year. The maximum temperature showed significant positive correlation with larval population of diamondback moth. Coccinellid predator, Coccinella septempunctata L. was recorded as a major predator in cauliflower ecosystem which was maximum in the11th SMW of the year. The maximum and minimum temperature significant positive correlation with the population of C. septempunctata.

Among different newer insecticides tested against diamondback, spinosad was found to be most effective which was found at par with indoxacarb. The insecticides, emamectin benzoate, chlorantraniliprole and fipronil were found moderately effective. The chlorfenapyr, acephate and pyridalyl were found least effective.

The maximum yield of cauliflower heads was registered in the plots treated with Spinosad 45 Sc, which was found at par with indoxacarb 14.5 Sc, the latter treatment was also non-significant with flubendiamide 39.35 Sc. The minimum yield was observed in pyridalyl 10 Ecand acephate 75 Sp. All the treatment were significantly superior over control. The order of yield revealed by different treatments was spinosad= indoxacarb≥ flubendiamide≥ emamectin benzoate≥ chlorantraniliprole≥ fipronil= chlorfenapyr› acephate= pyridalyl› control.

Keywords: Diamondback moth, Insecticides, Cauliflower, Spinosad

References

References not available

Abstract

Afield experiment entitled “Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. Botrytis L.)” was conducted at Research Farm, Himalayan Garhwal University, Uttarakhand during Rabi season of 2020-21. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications and consisting four fertility levels (Control, 50% RDF, 75% RDF and 125% RDF) and three treatments of organic manure (control, FYM @ 20 t/ha + Azospirillum and vermicompost @ 7.5 t/ha + Azospirillum).

Results showed that application of 100% RDF significantly increased the plant height, number of leaves per plant, plant spread, days taken to curd maturity, biological yield, curd diameter, fresh weight of curd, curd yield, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content, net returns and B: C ratio of cauliflower which was superior as compared to control and 50% RDF.

Keywords: Integrated, Nutrient Management, manure, experiment

References

References not available

Abstract

The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications and consisting four fertility levels (Control, 50% RDF, 75% RDF and 125% RDF) and three treatments of organic manure (control, FYM @ 20 t/ha + Azospirillum and vermicompost @ 7.5 t/ha + Azospirillum).

Results showed that application of 100% RDF significantly increased the plant height, number of leaves per plant, plant spread, days taken to curd maturity, biological yield, curd diameter, fresh weight of curd, curd yield, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content, net returns and B: C ratio of cauliflower which was superior as compared to control and 50% RDF.

Keywords: Replications, Maturity, Biological, Significantly

References

References not available

Abstract

This summary paper provides a general overview of sustainable gardening methods, highlighting many environmentally friendly technologies used in the industry. Horticulture is extremely important to conserving food, green cities and biological diversity. However, traditional garden tree methods often have negative environmental impacts, such assoil erosion, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. The introduction of sustainable and ecologically friendly practices in gardening has become increasingly important in recent years. In order to reduce environmental impacts, increase production and promote long-term sustainability, this review examines and evaluates the effectiveness of various strategies. This study analyzes many critical issues, including organic farming, integrated pest control, water protection, soil health treatment, and improving biodiversity. Research shows that eco-friendly garden practices can also lead to lower ecosystem input costs and better benefits. However, there are also difficulties and potential information regarding the widespread use of these techniques. The analysis concludes with suggestions for additional research and useful findings on promoting sustainable horticultural practices.

Keywords: Sustainable horticulture, ecologically friendly, organic farming, integrated pest management, water conservation, biodiversity

References

References not available

Abstract

The influence of religion on food habits in various cultures and societies is examined in this article. Throughout history, religion has strengthened social cohesiveness and cultural identity by influencing dietary preferences, meal plans, and fasting customs. In addition to dictating what is allowed or prohibited, religious beliefs can have an impact on mealtime customs, food preparation techniques, and moral issues around food consumption. In order to comprehend how religious teachings affect both individual and societal food practices, this research synthesizes evidence from a variety of academic sources. The results imply that religion is an important factor in encouraging dietary self-control, creating group meal customs, and influencing laws pertaining to food in both domestic and international settings. The relationship between spiritual beliefs and physical health is emphasized by religious fasting customs including Ramadan in Islam, Lent in Christianity, and fasting rites in Buddhism and Hinduism. Furthermore, dietary patterns influenced by religion support ethical farming, conscientious consumption, and food sustainability initiatives. However, religious dietary traditions face both opportunities and problems from contemporary issues including globalization, dietary shifts, and technical breakthroughs in food production. In order to create culturally responsive nutrition programs and food policies that respect religious diversity while advancing sustainability and health, legislators, medical practitioners, and academics must have a thorough understanding of how religion and dietary habits interact.

Keywords: Religious beliefs, Dietary Practices, Food Consumption, Health Outcomes, Cultural Identity, Global Food Security

References

References not available

Abstract

Mutation breeding offers an effective strategy for the genetic improvement of fruit crops, particularly those hindered by long juvenile phases, complex reproductive barriers, or limited genetic variability. By inducing heritable changes using physical (e.g., gamma rays, X-rays, ion beams) or chemical (e.g., EMS, sodium azide) mutagens, desirable traits can be introduced without disrupting the overall genetic integrity of elite cultivars. Historically, mutation breeding began in the early 20th century and has since led to the official release of over 3,000 improved crop varieties worldwide. Key achievements include the development of disease-resistant, seedless, dwarf, and early-maturing cultivars in species such as Japanese pear, guava, papaya, and banana. The use of in vitro techniques like somatic embryogenesis and cell suspension cultures has enhanced mutation efficiency, especially in vegetative propagated crops, by reducing chimerism and allowing high-throughput screening. Recent advancements such as TILLING, EcoTILLING, and insertional mutagenesis (via T-DNA and transposons) enable precise gene targeting and rapid identification of mutant alleles. Molecular markers and tissue culture-based selection techniques further accelerate the breeding cycle and improve selection accuracy. Success in mutation breeding depends on factors such as optimal mutagen dose, treatment duration, tissue sensitivity, and genotype. Strategic integration of traditional mutation techniques with modern biotechnological tools has greatly improved the ability to develop superior fruit cultivars with enhanced tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses, improved quality, and better adaptability. Mutation breeding thus remains a valuable approach in sustainable fruit crop improvement.

Keywords: Mutation breeding; Fruit crop improvement; Induced mutagenesis; In vitro techniques; Molecular markers

References

References not available