Volume-10, Issue-8, August 2024

Abstract

In-silico molecular docking has emerged as a transformative tool in pesticide discovery, offering detailed insights into the interactions between small molecules and biological targets. This review explores the foundational aspects of molecular docking, outlining its critical steps, including target selection, ligand preparation, docking simulation, scoring and post-docking analysis. It delves into the various types of molecular docking rigid and flexible. The role of molecular docking in insect pest management is examined, highlighting its effectiveness in identifying novel targets, optimizing existing compounds and reducing off-target effects. Furthermore, the diverse applications of molecular docking in pesticide development are discussed, from lead compound identification and structure-based design to resistance management and combination strategies. By leveraging molecular docking, researchers can design more effective and environmentally friendly pesticides, marking a paradigm shift in sustainable pest management practices.

Keywords: In-silico molecular docking, Pesticide discovery, Insect pest management, Molecular docking applications, Pesticide development, Computational pesticide design, Structure-based drug design, Virtual screening, Lead compound identification, Pesticide resistance

References

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Abstract

Sweetcorn (Zea mays L. saccharata) is renowned for its high sugar content and nutritional value, making it a staple crop in many diets worldwide. Achieving optimal growth and yield in sweetcorn requires efficient nutrient management and appropriate plant density. Nano urea, a novel fertilizer known for its controlled-release properties, promises enhanced nutrient delivery and utilization compared to traditional urea. This review synthesizes recent studies on the effects of nano urea and plant density on sweetcorn growth, yield and yield attributes. The findings suggest that integrating nano urea with optimal plant density can significantly boost sweetcorn productivity. Additionally, the review explores future research directions and implications for sustainable agricultural practices.

Keywords: Nano Urea, Plant Density, Sweet Corn, Productivity

References

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Abstract

The Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot in India, hosta remarkable diversity of wild orchids, which exhibit an array of intricate pollination strategies crucial for their reproductive success and survival. This study investigates the various pollination mechanisms employed by these orchids, emphasizing the role of biotic and abiotic factors. Through extensive field surveys and observational studies conducted across multiple habitats in the Western Ghats, we document the interactions between orchids and their pollinators, including insects, birds, and wind. Our findings reveal a spectrum of pollination strategies, from generalist approaches to highly specialized relationships, underscoring the complexity of orchid-pollinator dynamics. The study also highlights the significance of environmental conditions and habitat specificity in shaping these interactions. Additionally, we explore the impact of anthropogenic activities on pollinator availability and orchid reproductive success. This comprehensive analysis provides critical insights into the ecology of wild orchids in the Western Ghats, offering valuable information for conservation efforts aimed at preserving these ecologically and aesthetically significant plants.

Keywords: Pollination Ecology, Wild Orchids, Western Ghats, Wayanad Orchids, Pollination Strategies, Orchid Pollinators and Plant-Pollinator Interactions

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Abstract

The agricultural sector plays a vital role in India'seconomy, with Tur (Arhar) being a significant crop. Accurate yield forecasting is essential for efficient agricultural planning and resource allocation. This study employs time series analysis and forecasting techniques to predict the all-India yield of lentils. Historical yield data were collected, preprocessed, and subjected to exploratory data analysis to identify trends and seasonal patterns. Various models, including ARIMA, SARIMA, and Exponential Smoothing, were evaluated for their forecasting performance. The models were trained on historical data and validated using metrics such as Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE). The results indicate that the chosen models provide reliable forecasts, which can aid policymakers and farmers in making informed decisions. The study highlights the importance of time series analysis in agricultural forecasting and provides a methodological framework for future research in crop yield prediction.

Keywords: Tur(Arhar) Yield, AR, MA, ARMA, RMSE, MAE, SPSS Software

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Abstract

The study entitled ‘Studies on the phytochemical properties in Fig var. Afghan,Dienna and Brown turkey’ was conducted in the analytical laboratory of HC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore 2021-2022 using the fig fruits grown in the arid zone block of the college orchard. The main objective of this study was to determine the phytochemicals present in the fig fruits of three fig varieties namely Afghan, Dienna, Brown Turkey. Fig fruits were analysed for the determination of secondary metabolites that is phenols, flavonoids, tannins, anthocyanins and antioxidants and The Physio-chemical analysis like TSS, vitamin C, carotenoids and acidity.The content of phenols, flavonoids, and tannins was determined using the standards quercetin for flavonoids, pyrocatechol for phenols and tannic acid for tannins estimation. Determination of antioxidant activity was done by DPPH scavenging method. For that, scavenging capacity of DPPH radicals and reducing power were determined. IC50 value was calculated to determine the concentration of sample required to inhibit 50% of radical. The experimental results showed that the major phytochemicals like phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and antioxidants were found to be the highest in the variety brown turkey when compared to the other two varietiesi.e. Afghan and Deanna.

Keywords: Antioxidant activity, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate), flavonoids, tannins, anthocyanins

References

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Abstract

This review synthesizes recent advancements in weed management for chickpea cultivation, emphasizing both mechanical and chemical approaches. Mechanical strategies, such as hand weeding at 30 and 60 days after sowing (DAS), significantly improve yield and seed protein content by effectively reducing weed competition. Strategic hoeing also enhances crop growth but requires careful timing to prevent increased weed density. Chemical control methods, including pendimethalin and imazethapyr, show effective weed suppression when applied correctly, though excessive use can lead to reduced yields. Combining pendimethalin with manual weeding provides optimal results, balancing robust weed control with plant health. This review highlights the importance of integrating mechanical and chemical strategies to achieve sustainable chickpea production. Future research should focus on optimizing these integrated approaches, developing eco-friendly herbicides, and adapting management strategies to varying climatic conditions to further enhance chickpea yield and quality.

Keywords: Chickpea, hand weeding, imazethapyr, pendimethalin, growth attributes

References

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Abstract

Science indeed plays a crucial role in our daily lives, helping us comprehend the events and phenomena that surround us. Scientists, the individuals responsible for formulating theories and concepts, contribute significantly to advancing our understanding of the world. Unfortunately, throughout history, some scientists have faced persecution, and in extreme cases, they were even murdered. These incidents were often rooted in the Church'scondemnation, personal vendettas, or jealousy towards the scientists' fame. Among the notable figures who suffered unjustly were Hypatia (355 – 415), Michael Servetus (1511 – 1553), Giordano Bruno (1548 – 1600), Galileo Galilei (1564 – 1642), Antoine Lavoisier (1743 – 1794), Georgii Dmitrievich Karpechenko (1899 – 1941), and Nikolai Ivanovich Vavilov (1887 – 1943). These individuals were ensnared in political turmoil and persecuted, ultimately becoming martyrs of science. Their contributions to science could have been even more substantial had they not been subjected to persecution or met untimely deaths. The lesson derived from these tragic occurrences is a poignant one: 'Don'tmix politics with science'. The intertwining of politics with scientific pursuits has led to the suppression of knowledge, hindering progress and causing irreparable harm to both scientists and their families. By keeping politics separate from scientific inquiry, we can create an environment conducive to the free exchange of ideas and the unimpeded pursuit of knowledge. This separation is essential to ensuring that scientists can fulfill their potential without fear of persecution, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

Keywords: Martyrs, Scientists, Politics, Heresy, Persecution, Death

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Abstract

Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)is one of the most important vegetables in the world, Alternaria leaf spot caused by Alternaria alternata is one of the major diseases of chilli worldwide. It is responsible for causing up to 10-15 % yield losses in chilli. An experiment was conducted using Nilgiri leaf extract, Lemongrass leaf extract, Neem leaf extract, Datura leaf extract and Lantana camara leaf extract and Mancozeb were tested against Alternaria leaf spot (Alternaria alternata) (Fr.) keissler under field condition during Rabi season 2023. Among all treatments, neem leaf extract@10%FSwas found highly effective in showing the minimum disease intensity (%) with (18.51%) followed by nilgiri leaf extract @10%FS (20.07%). The maximum plant height (cm) (37.14cm) were found in neem leaf extract @10%FSfollowed by nilgiri leaf extract @10%FS (35.55cm) , highest number of leaves were found in neem leaf extract @10%FSwith (41.66) followed by nilgiri leaf extract @10%FS (40.43) and highest yield (t/ha) of chilli were found in neem leaf extract@10%FS (3.78t/ha)followed by nilgiri leaf extract @10%FS (3.26t/ha) compared to untreated check and treated check (Mancozeb) @0.2%FSand C:B ratio is highest in neem leaf extract @10%FS(1:4.0) followed by nilgiri leaf extract @10%FS (1:3.4).

Keywords: Alternaria alternata, Alternaria leaf spot, chilli, Disease intensity, Management

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Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plays a pivotal role in global food security, being a primary source of carbohydrates and nutrients for millions of people worldwide. However, the intensive agricultural practices necessary to meet the growing food demand have often led to soil degradation and reduced soil fertility. Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) has emerged as a sustainable approach that combines the use of organic and inorganic fertilizers, along with bio-fertilizers, to enhance crop productivity while maintaining soil health. This review critically examines recent studies on the application of INM practices in wheat cultivation, focusing on their impact on wheat growth and yield. The integration of organic manures, such as farmyard manure and compost, with chemical fertilizers has been shown to improve soil structure, increase microbial activity, and enhance nutrient availability. Moreover, the use of bio-fertilizers, including nitrogen-fixing bacteria and phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms, has been demonstrated to boost growth and improves plant health. The review highlights the synergistic effects of combining these different nutrient sources, leading to optimized nutrient use efficiency and increased wheat yield and quality. Challenges associated with INM practices, such as the need for precise management and potential variability in results, are also discussed. Overall, this comprehensive review underscores the importance of adopting INM practices to achieve sustainable wheat production.

Keywords: INM, Wheat, Growth, Yield, Organic Manure

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Abstract

Pineapple (Ananas comosus) (Linn.) (Merr.), is one of the commercially important fruit-crop of the world especially in India. It is the third most important tropical fruit in the world after banana and citrus with fine flavor and high nutritive value. Pineapple is a good source of carotene (Vitamin A) and vitamin Band is fairly rich in ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and it also contains a proteolytic enzyme bromelain, a digestive enzyme that digests food by breaking down protein. Bromelain also has anti-inflammatory, anti-clotting and anti-cancer properties. Consumption of pineapple regularly helps fight against arthritis, indigestion and worm infestation. The present study was undertaken with an aim to find out the reasons behind the low level of productivity in Imphal East district which has the highest area of pineapple in the state. The random sampling procedure was adopted to select the 120 sample from four villages selected for the present study. The constraints showed that majority of the pineapple growers in the area expressed the problems of inadequate facility of transport and communication, the improper pre-and post-harvest handling technique like absence of refrigerated vans for transportation, inappropriate packaging, lack of storage facilities etc. lead to heavy losses to the farmers.

Keywords: Constraints, Pineapple, Production, Post-Harvest Management, Manipur

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Abstract

Light is a critical natural resource for growth and development of rice crop. Rice grown in NorthEast India especially Assam during kharif season (June-December) sufferes from natural low bright sunshine (800-900 hoursi.e 50% of normal). On the otherhand, Nitrogen becomes a limiting nutritional factor. Because rice crop exhibits lower N use efficiency (≈33%) in subtropical regions (viz., Northeast India) due to heavy rainfall causing its loss by leaching or ammonia volatilization that contributes environmental pollution too. It'sinquisitive to understand the physiological and biochemical changes in rice crop brought about by nitrogen under low light conditions. Therefore, a dose response study of N (0, 50, 100 kgha-1) on eight winter (kharif) rice genotypes (Aki Sali, Senduri Sali, Rong Salpana, Bodumoni Sali, Kati Sali, Bordubi Sali, IR-8 (low light susceptible), and Swarna Prabha (low light tolerant) was performed applying N in splits as basal. In the study, 50 Kg Nha-1 was optimal in regulating most of the plant biochemical traits under low light condition. As such, Chlorophyll contents, NRactivity, N content, NUE, Carbohydrate contents (Starch and Reducing sugar) were maximum at the optimum N level as compared to the control under low light condition.

Keywords: Choloriphyll, Carbohydrate, Low light, Nitrogen, NUE, NRactivity, PPFD

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Abstract

Citrus thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood) is a major constraint in acid lime production, causing leaf distortion, flower drop and severe fruit scarring. Excessive reliance on synthetic insecticides has led to resistance development, residue concerns and disruption of natural enemies. Field experiments were conducted during 2022–23 and 2023–24 at Citrus Research Station, Petlur, Tirupati (Dt), Andhra Pradesh, India to evaluate the efficacy of different biorational insecticide spray schedules against citrus thrips. Eight treatments comprising neem-based botanicals, horticultural mineral oil (HMO), entomopathogenic fungi and Spinosad were evaluated in a randomized block design with three replications. Two sequential sprays were applied at petal fall and pea-size fruit stages. Treatments involving HMO @ 10 ml/lit followed by Spinosad 48 SC @ 0.25 ml/lit and Azadirachtin 1% EC (2 ml/lit) followed by Spinosad 48 SC @ 0.25 ml/lit recorded the lowest thrips population, minimum fruit infestation (3.6–4.1%) and highest yield (20.9–22.4 t/ha) across both seasons. Entomopathogenic fungi provided moderate but significant control, whereas mineral oil alone was less effective under higher pest pressure. The study clearly demonstrates that rotation of biorational insecticides with different modes of action ensures effective suppression of citrus thrips, reduces fruit damage and enhances yield. Such biorational spray schedules offer an environmentally safe, residue-free and sustainable alternative to conventional insecticides and can be effectively integrated into IPM programmes for acid lime cultivation.

Keywords: Acid lime, Azadirachtin, Horticultural mineral oil, IPM, Spinosad, Thrips

References

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