Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology

Sustainable Fruit Production for Climate Resilience

Robin Kumar — 2025-12-02

Sustainable fruit production is essential for global food security, rural livelihoods, and environmental health; however, it faces mounting challenges from intensification practices, climate change, and socioeconomic disparities. This comprehensive review synthesizes recent advances (2018–2025) in ecological and regenerative approaches, precision agriculture, technological innovations, and socioeconomic policy frameworks that underpin resilient fruit production systems. Ecological strategies including soil health restoration, water conservation, biodiversity enhancement, and ecosystem-based adaptation form the foundation for sustainable productivity. Precision agriculture, artificial intelligence, robotics, and digital platforms enable data-driven optimization and climate-smart management. Socioeconomic factors, particularly equitable market access, gender inclusion, and value chain resilience, ensure inclusive benefits across stakeholders. Climate change impacts on phenology, pest dynamics, and resource availability necessitate adaptive breeding, canopy management, and technological interventions. Future prospects emphasize genomics, circular economy integration, and synergistic policy-education frameworks as pathways to sustainably intensify fruit cultivation. This holistic, interdisciplinary framework balances productivity with environmental stewardship and social equity, offering actionable insights to guide researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in transforming fruit production into a sustainable, climate-resilient enterprise.

Climate Resilient Rice: Progress and Perspectives in Submergence Tolerance

Akula Sri Lakshmi — 2025-12-03

Rice cultivation in rainfed lowland regions faces mounting challenges due to climate-driven flooding stress, which severely threatens crop productivity. Farmers in flood-prone areas are often reluctant to adopt improved rice varieties due to their limited tolerance to submergence stress. Consequently, breeding rice for submergence tolerance has become a critical goal across Asia. Rice possess natural adaptation to wet environments, such as aerenchyma formation, which facilitate oxygen transport under waterlogged conditions. However, prolonged or complete submergence still disrupts physiological processes, limiting growth and yield. The discovery and fine-mapping of the Sub1 QTL in the flood-tolerant landrace FR13A was a breakthrough in rice breeding. This enabled marker-assisted introgression of Sub1 into popular high-yielding varieties, enhancing their resilience to flash flooding. Such genetic advancements are vital for stabilizing rice production in rainfed lowland areas prone to climate-induced submergence. Recent advances in molecular breeding and genomics have significantly accelerated the development of rice varieties with combined stress tolerance. The successful introgression of the Sub1 locus using SSR markers has led to the release of widely adopted submergence-tolerant cultivars such as Swarna-Sub1, BR11-Sub1, and IR64-Sub1 across South and Southeast Asia. This review synthesizes recent progress in understanding the morphological, biochemical, physiological and molecular mechanisms that govern submergence tolerance in rice. Diverse adaptive strategies employed by rice plants to withstand flooding stress is dicussed and a comprehensive overview of the genetic basis underlying these responses is provided. The review also discusses current breeding strategies aimed at developing submergence-tolerant cultivars, identifies critical gaps in existing approaches, and proposes targeted solutions to enhance breeding efficiency.

Advances in Fish Preservation and Cold Chain Management: A Comprehensive Review

Venkatappa — 2025-12-04

Fish is a highly perishable food item that demands stringent control of temperature and handling throughout harvesting, processing, storage and distribution. This review examines significant advances in fish preservation techniques and cold chain management. It covers physical‑chemical means of preserving fish (such as chilling, freezing, glazing, drying), innovations in freezing technologies (individually quick freezing, super‐chilling, cryogenic methods), the structure and logistics of fish cold chains, intelligent monitoring and traceability tools (sensors, IoT, data logging), case studies in major fisheries sectors and the sustainability challenges associated with energy use, infrastructure gaps and spoilage losses. The review draws on recent research to highlight how integrated preservation and cold chain strategies can reduce post-harvest losses, maintain nutritional and sensory quality, improve food safety and open access to distant markets. It concludes with a discussion of remaining barriers and future directions for research and industry practice.

Trends and Prospects for Quality Improvement in Turmeric through Biotechnological Interventions

Nellisha Ngoruw Moyon — 2025-12-04

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is a globally important spice and medicinal crop whose economic value is tightly coupled to quality attributes such as curcuminoid content, essential oil profile, and safety from adulteration and contaminants. Conventional breeding and agronomic management have improved yield and adaptability, but gains in quality traits remain constrained by clonal propagation, long crop duration, complex polyploid genome, and strong environmental modulation of phytochemical composition. Over the last two decades, biotechnology has opened new possibilities for precise quality improvement, ranging from tissue culture–based production of uniform, disease-free planting material to in vitro and cell-culture–based enhancement of curcuminoids and oils, integration of nanotechnology with micropropagation, and use of rhizobacteria to modulate plant metabolism. Parallel advances in turmeric genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics now provide a systems-level view of curcuminoid biosynthesis and other specialized metabolites, enabling the identification of candidate genes and pathways that can be targeted for future marker-assisted selection, metabolic engineering, and, eventually, genome editing. This review synthesizes current knowledge on biotechnological interventions directly or indirectly aimed at turmeric quality improvement, critically assesses their impact and scalability, and highlights how chromosome-scale genome assemblies, widely targeted metabolomics, and functional studies on polyketide synthases are reshaping the conceptual toolbox for quality-focused breeding. Finally, it outlines emerging trends—including CRISPR-based editing, synthetic biology and heterologous production, microbiome engineering, and AI-assisted quality phenotyping—and discusses the opportunities and practical constraints in translating these advances into cultivar development and value chain transformation.

Carbon Sequestration in Agricultural Soils: Strategies to Improve Soil Health

Kiran Kumari — 2025-12-05

Agricultural soils are increasingly recognized as a critical leverage point for both climate change mitigation and the restoration of soil health. Enhancing soil organic carbon in croplands can offset a portion of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions while simultaneously improving soil structure, nutrient cycling, biodiversity and resilience to climate extremes. Yet, the magnitude and durability of carbon sequestration, and the extent to which it co-delivers soil health benefits, depend strongly on management, climate and soil context. This review synthesizes recent evidence on mechanisms of soil carbon stabilization and evaluates the performance, trade-offs and complementarities of key agricultural strategies, including conservation tillage, cover cropping and crop diversification, organic amendments and integrated nutrient management, biochar application, and agroforestry and perennial systems. We draw on global meta-analyses and regional long-term experiments to show that these practices can increase soil organic carbon in surface horizons and improve multiple soil health indicators, though responses are heterogeneous and often exhibit saturation over time. Co-benefits include improved aggregate stability, reduced erosion, enhanced water-holding capacity and more robust biological functioning, which can translate into higher and less variable yields under climate stress. However, constraints such as biophysical limits, potential trade-offs with nitrous oxide emissions, and socio-economic and measurement challenges temper expectations of large-scale deployment. We conclude by outlining research and policy priorities for designing context-specific portfolios of practices, strengthening monitoring and verification systems, and aligning incentives so that carbon-focused interventions deliver durable gains in soil health and farm livelihoods.

Gut Microbiota Concerning Reproductive Health of Domestic Animals

Anoop Kumar — 2025-12-09

The animal gut microbiota made up of trillions of gastrointestinal tract microorganisms functions as a crucial part of metabolic processes as well as immunity and reproductive health. The microbiome–gut–reproductive axis (MGRA) demonstrates how gut microbial patterns regulate reproductive hormones together with ovarian function and immune responses and fertility in dairy animals. A microbial imbalance develops from diet disturbances and antibiotic usage and metabolic stress which causes systemic inflammation and hormonal disruption. The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis experiences control through short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and endotoxins that originate from microbial metabolites. The reproductive tract of animals contains its unique microbial ecosystem which develops from ascending and hematogenous and environmental microbial pathways. Recent research demonstrates that dysbiosis leads to endometritis together with irregular estrous cycles and lower conception rates. The use of probiotics together with prebiotics and microbiota transplantation shows promise as they work to rebuild eubiosis while increasing reproductive performance. The understanding of MGRA can lead to sustainable non-antibiotic approaches for dairy fertility improvement.

Nano Sensors for Real-Time Soil and Crop Health Monitoring: A Review

Pranjal Saini — 2025-12-09

Agriculture is exposed to increased pressure to satisfy the growing food demands around the globe and also handle the decreasing land area, decreased soil fertility, and the effects of climate change. The paper aims to explore the nano sensors for real-time soil and crop health monitoring. Maintaining soil health and sustainable production of crops has thus become a big issue. One of the new opportunities brought out by nanotechnology is nanosensors, which provide transformational possibilities in real-time monitoring of soil and crop health. The devices allow for determining soil parameters (moisture, pH, nutrients, organic matter, salinity, and microbial activity) accurately and give farmers practical information on how to maximise inputs and enhance productivity. Various categories of nanosensors, such as electrochemical sensors, mechanical sensors, optical sensors and chemical sensors, have been found to be promising in improving precision agriculture. Additionally, nanomaterial-based systems such as carbon nanotubes, metal/metal oxide nanoparticles, and quantum dots expand their scope in nutrient tracking, stress detection, and environmental monitoring. South Asia has recorded an excessive economic development within the last 20 years; however, there are over 25% of the hungry individuals in the world and half of all the malnourished kids and women in the world. However, despite their advantages of sensitivity, speed, and continuous monitoring, challenges remain, including high production costs, durability in harsh soil conditions, data management complexities, health and environmental safety concerns, and a lack of standardisation. This review highlights the potential of nanosensors to revolutionise soil and crop monitoring while also discussing the limitations and future prospects. With advancements in nanomaterials, integration with IoT and AI, and supportive policies, nanosensors hold significant potential to ensure sustainable agriculture, strengthen food security, and reduce environmental impacts. Considering these challenges, they require multiple efforts to improve the scalability, affordability, and eco-safety of nanosensor technologies.

Genotype × Environment Interactions for Qualitative Traits in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.): Differential Phenotypic Plasticity and Stability in Inbreds and Hybrids across Summer and Kharif Seasons

Akanksha — 2025-12-02

Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.), an important solanaceous vegetable, shows high phenotypic plasticity, making it a valuable model for studying genotype × environment (G×E) interactions. Sixty-eight diverse brinjal genotypes (22 inbred lines and 46 F₁ hybrids) were evaluated at ICAR–Indian Institute of Vegetable Research, Varanasi, India, during the summer (March–June) and kharif (July–October) seasons of 2024–25 to assess seasonal phenotypic plasticity and stability of seven qualitative morphological traits under contrasting environments. The experiment was laid out as a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications per genotype in each season. Data were analysed using chi-square, McNemar’s, Stuart-Maxwell tests, and two-way ANOVA. Out of the 68 genotypes, 57.4% (39) exhibited complete phenotypic stability across both seasons, with inbred lines (59.1%, 13/22) slightly more stable than hybrids (56.5%, 26/46). Growth habit was the most plastic trait (23.5% genotypes changed), followed by fruit colour (17.6%) and fruit shape (13.2%), whereas calyx colour, fruit flesh colour, leaf vein colour, and leaf spininess remained invariant. Kharif conditions favoured erect growth habit, darker fruit pigmentation, and rounder fruit shape. Hybrids displayed greater plasticity for growth habit and fruit shape, while inbreds were more responsive for fruit colour. Highly significant G×E interactions were detected for growth habit (p = 0.0012) and fruit colour (p = 0.003). Thirty-nine genotypes showing complete stability across seasons, including 12 inbreds and 27 hybrids (listed in the manuscript), are recommended as promising parental material for breeding season-independent, climate-resilient brinjal cultivars and for direct commercial cultivation where consistent morphological expression and market preference are essential. These findings highlight the critical role of phenotypic plasticity and stability in developing adaptable brinjal varieties for variable and changing climatic conditions.

Influence of Herbicidal Regimes and Beneficial Microbial Strains on Growth and Yield Performance of Soybean (Glycine max L.)

Swati Thakur — 2025-12-02

A field trial was conducted during Kharif 2024–25 at R.A.K. College of Agriculture, Sehore, to assess the influence of herbicidal regimes and microbial inoculants on soybean growth and yield. The experiment was laid out in Split Plot Design with 5 herbicide treatments and 4 microbial inoculation treatments, replicated thrice. Growth and yield parameters such as plant height, branches per plant, nodulation, pods per plant, seed yield, harvest index and economics were recorded. Results revealed that hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS achieved the highest plant growth and yield attributes, followed by Diclosulam @ 26 g a.i. ha⁻¹ (PE) fb Propaquizafop + Imazethapyr (PoE). Among microbial inoculants, the combined inoculation of Bradyrhizobium daqingense + Bacillus aryabhattii significantly enhanced nodulation and yield performance. The highest seed yield (24.65 q ha⁻¹) was obtained with hand weeding, while the highest benefit–cost ratio (2.53) was achieved with Diclosulam (PE). The study concluded that integration of herbicide used with microbial inoculants effectively enhanced growth and yield of soybean at a lower cost.

Purification and Comparative Insight into Physico-chemical and Kinetic Properties of Fatty Acid Esterases Novel Isoforms from Pearl Millet and their Effect on Shelf Life

Sunil Taak — 2025-12-02

The current study focused on isolating and characterising fatty acid esterase from pearl millet, specifically comparing enzymes derived from F1 seeds and F2 grains. Purification was achieved through ammonium sulphate precipitation, dialysis, and gel filtration chromatography. Separation on a Sephadex G-75 column revealed two distinct isoforms, termed Fatty Acid Esterase I and II. In F1 seeds, these isoforms were purified to 10.05 and 8.34-fold levels with activity recoveries of 13.3% and 8.6%, respectively, whereas in F2 grains, purification reached 4.65- and 5.39-fold levels with recoveries of 6.71% and 9.11%. Both isoforms exhibited optimal function within a pH range of 7.8-8.0. Molecular weight determinations showed that fatty acid esterase I measured 69.18 kDa in F1 seeds and 66.09 kDa in F2 grains, while fatty acid esterase II had molecular masses of 23.98 kDa and 22.90 kDa, respectively. The optimal temperature for the activity of both esterases from both sources was 45 °C. Thermostability tests indicated that Esterase II from F1 seeds and Esterase I from F2 grains were more heat-resistant than their counterparts. Kinetic analyses revealed Vmax/Km values of 10.85 and 13.19 units mL⁻¹ µM⁻¹ for esterase I from F1 seeds and F2 grains, while esterase II displayed a higher Vmax/Km value in F2 grains (8.45 units mL⁻¹ µM⁻¹) compared to F1. Therefore, the development of fat acidity and specific fat acidity in stored flour strongly correlated with lipid content. Increase in fat content was directly proportional to an increase in Specific fat acidity and fat acidity in both genotypes of pearl millet. Development of fat acidity was higher in high-temperature storage flour as compared to low-temperature stored flour. So, Low temperature increased the shelf life of pearl millet flour. F2 grains contained lipid content and fat acidity, and SFA were higher compared to F1 seeds of HHB-94. So, fatty acidity and SFA directly depend on fat content. Lower temperatures slow down these kinetics, thereby prolonging shelf life. Thus, Rancidity was higher in F2 grains due to higher lipid content. Both isoforms from the two genotypes were inhibited by ascorbic acid, suggesting that the vitamin C could suppress in situ lipid hydrolysis, thereby extending the shelf life of millet flour.

In Silico Identification of Conserved Hypothetical Proteins as Novel Drug Targets and Phytochemical Inhibitors against Clostridium perfringens

Shaunak Soni — 2025-12-02

The growing global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) necessitates the urgent identification of new drug targets against pathogens such as the Gram-positive, spore-forming anaerobe Clostridium perfringens, a major cause of diarrhea, enterotoxemia, and myonecrosis in humans and animals. We propose that conserved hypothetical proteins (HPs)—a largely uncharacterized component of the C. perfringens proteome—represent an overlooked resource for novel therapeutics. Using a stringent subtractive proteomics and in silico pipeline, we analyzed 2661 C. perfringens proteins. We focused on 1179 HPs, identifying 496 conserved across strains. Sequential filtering based on physicochemical properties, subcellular localization, and non-homology to the human gut microbiome yielded 22 promising non-homologous HPs suitable as drug targets.

To identify lead compounds, we screened 69 drug-like phytochemical ligands with known antibacterial activity. Molecular docking revealed strong inhibitory interactions for multiple ligand–protein pairs, with binding energies as low as –10.6 kcal/mol (e.g., (+)-galbacin, tuberosin, and (–)-asarinin against specific HPs). These findings strongly support the utility of conserved hypothetical proteins as a rich, untapped source of new antimicrobial targets. Our study demonstrates that in silico analyses can rapidly accelerate drug discovery against fast-evolving pathogens by prioritizing novel targets and corresponding lead compounds for subsequent experimental validation. As a critical next step, these candidate proteins and their top-scoring ligand interactions should undergo experimental validation through biochemical assays, structural characterization, and in vitro inhibition studies to confirm their therapeutic potential.

In-silico Analysis and Structural Modelling of Peroxidase Enzyme in Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]

Pallavi, C.R. — 2025-12-03

Aims: Seed deterioration is a vital constraint in soybean seeds and peroxidase enzyme plays an important role in seed viability during storage. The study aimed to characterise the soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) seed-coat peroxidase (Ep) gene through in silico approaches and to elucidate its structural and evolutionary features related to oxidative-stress tolerance and seed storability.

Study Design: A computational experimental design was followed, integrating sequence alignment, structural prediction, and phylogenetic analysis of Ep and related Glycine max peroxidase isoforms.

Place and Duration of Study: The bioinformatics analyses were conducted at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, between April 2025 and June 2025.

Methodology: The full-length Ep peroxidase sequence (GenBank accession no. L78163.1) was retrieved from NCBI and analysed using ClustalW in BioEdit v7.2.5 for multiple-sequence alignment. Structural prediction and secondary-structure composition were obtained using trRosetta, and conserved catalytic residues were identified. The aligned dataset was used for phylogenetic tree construction in MEGA X (v11) employing the Neighbour-Joining method with 1000 bootstrap replications, using the Actin gene (J01298.1) as an outgroup.

Results: The Ep protein exhibited a typical class III peroxidase fold, with approximately 42 % α-helices, 15 % β-strands, and 43 % random coils and loops. The catalytic triad (His-42, Arg-38, His-170) and disulfide-forming cysteine residues were conserved across all peroxidase isoforms. Phylogenetic analysis resolved three major clades with bootstrap support of 72–100 %, confirming evolutionary stability and close homology among soybean peroxidases.

Conclusion: The in silico analysis demonstrated that the Ep peroxidase gene retains a conserved catalytic geometry and robust α-helical framework, contributing to oxidative-stress tolerance in soybean seeds. These findings provide a molecular basis for the role of peroxidase in seed longevity and offer potential markers for breeding programmes aimed at improving seed storability.

Epidemiological Insights of Canine Pyometra in Jabalpur, India

Shashank Vishvakarma — 2025-12-03

The present study investigated the incidence, epidemiological patterns and clinical characteristics of canine pyometra in Jabalpur from August 2024 to July 2025, focusing on breed, age and seasonal predispositions as well as diagnostic features associated with disease severity. A total of 1125 small animal gynaecological cases presented to the Veterinary Clinical Complex, Jabalpur were evaluated, among which female dogs exhibiting clinical signs including purulent or mucopurulent vaginal discharge, abdominal distension, polydipsia, vomiting and inappetence that were suggestive of pyometra were screened through physical and gynaeco-clinical examination. Diagnosis was confirmed by transabdominal ultrasonography, enabling assessment of uterine fluid accumulation, cystic changes and cervical status for classification into open- or closed-cervix pyometra. The overall incidence of pyometra was 9.15 percent among small animal gynaecological cases, confirming its significance as a major reproductive disorder in the region. Middle-aged to older bitches, particularly those aged 7–9 years, were most susceptible and Labradors, Pomeranians and Beagles constituted the most affected breeds. Closed-cervix pyometra accounted for the majority of cases and more than half the animals presented with severe disease, indicating delayed clinical recognition. A seasonal rise in cases during February, October and March corresponded with the post-oestrus period, supporting the influence of progesterone dominance in predisposing the uterus to infection. These findings reflect the importance of early diagnostic screening using ultrasonography and improved owner awareness to facilitate timely therapeutic intervention and thereby reduce morbidity, mortality and increase fertility outcomes associated with pyometra.

Impact of Storage Temperatures and the Ethylene Inhibitor (1-MCP) on the Chemical Properties of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Variety Bari-4

Hossain Mohammad Zakir — 2025-12-03

Mango is the third most widely cultivated tropical fruit in the world, and like the majority of tropical fruits, its postharvest life is constrained. There have been numerous attempts to create methods to stop postharvest loss and lengthen the shelf life of certain perishable fruits and vegetables. The current study aimed to identify the most efficient method for extending the shelf life of mango fruits. The equipment of the Plant Biotechnology and Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh, was used to conduct the experiments. Directly taken from the mango garden, mature green mangoes were then given a 10-minute hot water treatment before being dried by air. The mangoes were then carefully stored in a specialist facility (Time lagging cooling system) at 30-32^oC and at 12–13°C for 24 hours, treated with 1-MCP at concentrations of 1–2 ppm. Mangoes that had not been treated were used as the control. The total soluble solid content, titratable acidity, starch content, total sugar content, amylase activity and invertase activity were evaluated. The total soluble solid content, total sugar content, amylase activity, and invertase activity increased in mangoes treated with 1-MCP at concentrations of 1 and 2 ppm under normal temperature, while titratable acidity and starch content significantly decreased. However, all of these characteristics remained unchanged in mangoes treated with 1-MCP at a 2 ppm concentration under storage temperature (12 to 13 °C). The 2ppm treatment exhibited better results in delaying the changes in chemical characteristics when compared to the other 1-MCP doses. The study concluded that in terms of concentration, the fruits were firmer, greener, and had a longer storage life of up to 24 days when treated with 2 ppm of 1-MCP at (12-13°C) than the others.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Bulb Parameters of Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) under Foothill Conditions of Nagaland

Pallavi Verma — 2025-12-03

The present investigation was conducted during the year 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 in the Experimental farm at Department of Horticulture, SAS, Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus, Nagaland. The trial was laid out in randomized block design consisting of twelve treatments with three replications. The treatments include a combination of recommended doses of fertilizers along with the organic manures such as the farm yard manure, vermicompost, poultry manure, forest soil, and humic acid. Among the various treatments, the plants receiving a combination of 75 % RDF and Vermicompost @ 5 t ha^-1(T₄) was found to be the best in all the vegetative and bulb parameters, viz., minimum days to sprouting (9.23), maximum number of leaves per plant (23.78), length of leaves (47.96 cm), plant height (56. 94 cm), number of side shoot per plant (6.05), number of bulbs per plant (2.95), number of bulblets per plant (18.20), bulb diameter (3.82 cm), bulb weight (81.52 g), bulblet weight (122.85g) and bulb yield (26.73 t/ ha). It is concluded and recommended that 75 % recommended dose of fertilizer along with @ 5 t ha^-1 vermicompost should be applied for significant results of vegetative growth and bulb yield in tuberose.

Evaluation of the Effect of Different Plants Species in the Push-pull Strategies against Spodoptera frugiperda in Maize

Sunil Kumar Dhabhai — 2025-12-03

Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera), is an economically important invasive pest of maize. Habitat manipulation is a form of conservation biological management that uses cover crops/hedge rows/flower strip crops in the main crop field to conserve beneficial insect fauna such as natural enemies. Push pull strategies is a most effective way of managing the pest is through the use of companion cropping system. It involves intercropping maize with repellent plants such as Desmodium (Push) and planting an attractive trap plants such as Napier grass and sudan grass (pull) as a border crop around this intercropped field. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of the push-pull strategies in maize for the management of fall armyworm. Seven treatments viz., Maize + Green leaf fodder (Desmodium sp.) (trap/border crop: Napier grass) :Conventional Push-Pull Technology, Maize + Groundnut (Trap/border crop: Sudan grass), Maize + Cluster bean (Trap/border crop: Sudan grass), Maize + Cowpea (Trap/border crop: Sudan grass), Maize + Sunhemp (Trap/border crop: Sudan grass), Maize + Soybean (Trap/border crop: Sudan grass) and monocrop of maize were evaluated for the severity of damage caused by fall armyworm. The per cent plant damage and number of larvae per 25 plants were significantly less in the maize + Desmodium sp. at 12 weeks after planting compared to the monocrop of maize. The abundance of Coccinellid predators, Earwigs and spiders was significantly higher in maize intercropped with Desmodium sp. (conventional push-pull technology) compared to the sole crop of maize. The results of the study indicated the push-pull strategies in reducing fall armyworm damage in maize.

Integrating Biological and Physical Principles into Ergonomic Furniture Design: Enhancing Posture and Comfort

Sasmita Dandasena — 2025-12-03

As a functional item, furniture has to satisfy both aesthetic and scientific criteria. In regards to human health and productivity, ergonomic considerations are particularly crucial in furniture design. Furniture design must be approached scientifically in order to create designs that are at the perfect nexus of art and science. The findings of the investigation show that the majority of research on biomechanics in furniture design focuses on specialized furniture, including wheelchairs and car seats, with little research done on everyday furniture. Ergonomic furniture design should incorporate the logical and scientific application of biomechanics to encourage healthy living and improve productivity at work. A multifaceted approach has been developed through integrating biology to take into consideration human anatomy and mobility, physics to guarantee appropriate support and alignment, and home science insights to balance design with domestic lifestyles.

Phylogenetic Analysis of Annexin Genes in Selected Monocot and Dicot Plants

Gurucharan Sahu — 2025-12-03

Annexins are a diverse family of calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding proteins involved in membrane transport, signal transduction, and various stress responses in plants. This study presents a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of annexin genes across multiple monocot and dicot plant species. The study involved downloading the complete annexin gene sequences from reliable databases. Phylogenetic trees were carefully constructed for individual plant species, followed by a comparative analysis that distinguished the evolutionary approach of annexin genes among monocots and dicots. The analysis revealed significant evolutionary divergence and conserved clades within the annexin gene family, suggesting both lineage-specific expansions and ancient gene duplications. The results of this study provide new insights into the molecular evolution of annexins and highlight their potential role in plant adaptation and resilience. The comprehensive phylogenetic analyses performed in this work not only contribute to the understanding of annexin gene evolution but also lay the foundation for future functional studies aimed at exploiting annexins for crop improvement and stress management.

Molecular Validation of SSR Markers and Genetic Diversity Linked to Anaerobic Germination Tolerance in Deepwater Rice (Bao) of Assam

Sachin Rajpoot — 2025-12-04

Aims: This study focused on validating previously identified SSR markers associated with quantitative trait loci (QTLs) related to tolerance for anaerobic germination (AG). Additionally, it aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity of 34 rice genotypes, which included 31 local deepwater Bao cultivars from Assam. The findings could be valuable for breeding programs aimed at enhancing flood resilience in rice.

Study Design: All genotypes were assessed under controlled anaerobic conditions during germination and were genotyped using 38 SSR markers linked to quantitative trait loci (QTL).

Methodology: Genomic DNA was extracted from seedlings that were 7 days old and then amplified with specific SSR markers. The polymorphism data were analyzed using DARwin 5.0 to create a genetic dendrogram. Additionally, the phenotypic performance of AG was correlated with the SSR profiles through simple linear regression to find notable associations between markers and traits.

Results: Out of the 38 SSR markers we tested, 19 showed two alleles, 16 showed three alleles, and three displayed four alleles, highlighting a notable level of polymorphism. When we conducted a cluster analysis, we were able to group the 34 genotypes into three main clusters, effectively distinguishing between tolerant and susceptible lines. Among the 13 Bao cultivars we examined, we found varying degrees of AG tolerance. Notably, Rangdha Kekua Bao achieved 80% tolerance, while Rangoli showed 50%, making them the closest to the tolerant controls. Additionally, regression analysis pinpointed two specific markers, RM553_170 (qAG9) and RM5378_160 (qAG5), that showed a significant association with AG tolerance, with a p-value of 0.05 or less.

Conclusion: RM553 and RM5378 have been confirmed as effective markers for assessing anaerobic germination tolerance in rice breeding. The tolerant Bao cultivars identified in this study offer promising resources for developing rice varieties that can thrive in direct-seeded and flood-prone environments. However, the research has some limitations, including a relatively small sample size and a focus on just one environmental condition. To enhance the utility of these markers, future studies should consider multi-location validations and functional analyses.

Bioactive Compounds and Nutritional Profile of Calamus erectus: An Underexplored Fruit from Sikkim, India

Yamuna Pandey — 2025-12-04

Calamus erectus Roxb., locally known as Fyakrey in Sikkim, is an underutilized wild fruit species that has significant traditional importance but is poorly scientifically characterized. The present study estimated the nutrient composition, mineral profile, and phytochemicals of its fruits to infer the possible use as a functional food resource. Proximate analysis indicated that the fruit is dominated by carbohydrates (87.69 ± 0.70%), which assigns a very high nutritive value to fruits at 376.88 ± 0.14 Kcal/100 g. Moderate levels of crude protein (3.74 ± 0.56%) and crude fibre (4.99 ± 0.02%), along with lower fat and ash contents, were measured. The mineral profile showed potassium to be the predominant element measured at 160.94 ± 1.56 µg/L, besides moderate amounts of magnesium, sodium, and calcium, and trace levels of iron, copper, manganese, zinc, and molybdenum. The phytochemical evaluation revealed a high total phenolic content of 39.00 ± 1.32 mg GAE/g and good flavonoid content at 22.72 ± 0.21 mg QE/g, thus reflecting strong antioxidant potential. It also contained detectable amounts of ascorbic acid, anthocyanins, and carotenoids. Overall, the above results showed that Calamus erectus is a nutritionally valuable lesser-known fruit and rich in bioactive compounds, thus supporting its possible use as a natural source of energy, dietary fibre, and antioxidants. The present study supports the nutraceutical potential of the species and is relevant in the context of diversified fruits from the Eastern Himalaya.

Occurrence and Characterization of Fusarium Wilt of Salad Cucumber in Southern Kerala, India

Naurin Hisana B. — 2025-12-05

The present study investigated the occurrence, symptomatology, pathogenicity and characterization of the fungal pathogen associated with wilt of salad cucumber in selected agro-ecological units (AEU 8 and AEU 9) of Kerala. Survey conducted in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta districts revealed that the disease was most prevalent during flowering and fruit bearing stages. Typical symptoms included yellowing and wilting of foliage, starting from the lower leaves and progressing upwards, ultimately leading to the complete drying of the vines. The location Anchal recorded the highest disease incidence and severity of 81.00% and 55.67% respectively. The pathogen isolated from infected tissues fulfilled Koch’s postulates. Among the isolates, the isolate I₃ from Kakkamoola was the most virulent producing symptoms within seven days of artificial inoculation. Cultural and morphological characterization revealed considerable variability among isolates. Mycelial growth among the isolates varied from cottony and fluffy to floccose, fibrous or sparse, with colony colours ranging from white to pale brown, lilac and pinkish red. Most isolates exhibited circular, radial growth with concentric or zonate rings, while a few showed uniform spreading or feathery margins. Pigmentation of the medium differed markedly, producing light salmon to reddish-pink or yellowish-brown hues, whereas some isolates showed no pigmentation. All the isolates produced macroconidia, microconidia, and chlamydospores. Macroconidia were fusiform to falcate shaped, with 2–4 septa, and microconidia were mostly oval shaped. Chlamydospores were globose and thick walled, with some having rough walls, produced terminally or intercalary in the mycelium, either singly or in pairs. Molecular identification of the most virulent isolate using ITS primers confirmed the identity of the pathogen as Fusarium incarnatum with 99.8% homology.

Changes in Oil Content and Its Physicochemical Properties from Stored Seed of Buchanania lanzan Spreng

Saswat Nayak — 2025-12-05

The study was carried out with an objective to assess the best storage possibility for seeds and kernels of Buchanania lanzan Spreng. to maximise Oil content with least degradation in its quality. The seeds were collected from a phenotypically superior tree from the Sundergarh Forest Division of Odisha and were air dried for 3 days followed by oven dried at 50⁰C for 12 hrs. The Seeds and Kernel were stored separately under various storage conditions i.e. Open Polythene bags in Light (OPL), Closed Polythene bag in Light (CPL), Closed Polythene bag in Dark (CPD) and Open Polythene bag in Dark (OPD) for different storage durations (0, 30, 60 ,90 and 120 days). The Oil was extracted by Soxhlet apparatus using Petroleum ether (60^oC-80^oC) and observation were then recorded for the Oil content (%) and its Physicochemical properties like Acid value, Saponification value, Ester value, Carbonyl value, and Density. The oil content, Acid value, Saponification value, Ester value decreased while the Carbonyl value increased with increase in storage period. Kernel was a better storage option than seed for maintaining higher quality of Oil irrespective of storage conditions and durations. CPD may be considered as best storage option for maintain all oil qualities irrespective of seed or kernel as storage material. 60 days of storage duration may be considered ideal storage period with least degradation in oil and its quality. The best storage combination for maintaining higher Oil content and better quality was kernels stored for 120 days in closed dark so as for better utilisation in food, biodiesel, medicinal and other purposes. The correlation study revealed strong positive correlation between saponification value and ester value. Oil content also showed positive correlation with ester value and saponification value whereas negative correlation with carbonyl value and acid value.

Effect of Dietary Carbohydrate on Rumen Physico-chemical Properties in Non-descriptive Goats of Theni District, India

Karthikeyan Ramaiyan — 2025-12-05

The present study aimed to perform a comparative analysis of rumen liquor in goats diagnosed with acidosis and healthy goats from the Theni district. Goats were grouped into two groups, six in each group. Rumen liquor was collected by rumen liquor extraction pump and strained immediately. Strained liquor was used for the study. Key parameters measured included rumen pH, protozoa count, ammonia concentration and total volatile fatty acids (TVFA). These parameters are indicators of rumen fermentation efficiency and provide information about disturbance associated with acidosis. Results demonstrated a significant reduction in rumen pH, protozoa population and increased ammonia levels in goats affected by acidosis compared to healthy goats.

Assessment of Correlation and Path Analysis for Early Seedling Vigour Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Laboratory Conditions

Chilaparthi Vamsi Krishna — 2025-12-05

Early seedling vigour (ESV) is a critical trait for successful crop establishment in direct-seeded rice systems, where rapid germination and uniform seedling growth provide a competitive advantage against weeds, ensure better stand establishment, and ultimately contribute to higher yield. The present study evaluated 180 rice genotypes under laboratory conditions to assess genetic variability and trait contributions to ESV through correlation and path coefficient analysis of seedling traits and vigour indices. The path coefficient analysis identified critical factors influencing the vigour indices root length was the primary driver of Seedling Vigour Index I (SVI I) in laboratory conditions, while shoot elongation traits dominated under dry direct-seeded rice environments. Seedling dry weight was the main direct contributor to Seedling Vigour Index II (SVI II) across both environments. Strong positive correlations were found among key traits especially between total seedling length and SVI I and between dry weight and SVI II. Overall seedling dry weight, shoot length, root length and total seedling length emerged as reliable selection indices for improving ESV. The findings underscore the critical role of multi-environment phenotyping in prioritizing traits for breeding rice adapted to direct-seeded systems. By identifying key contributors to early seedling vigour, this study provides valuable selection indices to enhance crop establishment and productivity in resource-efficient rice cultivation. This integrated phenotyping approach revealed substantial genetic variation for early seedling vigour, supporting the selection of genotypes with rapid early growth and biomass accumulation, essential for improving establishment and performance in DSR systems.

Low-cost High-throughput Method for Determining Electron-Beam Irradiation Doses for Antibiotic Degradation

Visnuvinayagam Sivam — 2025-12-05

In recent years, there's been growing interest in using Electron Beam Irradiation (EBI) to break down medical waste and help control the spread of antimicrobial resistance. The amount of EBI required to degrade antibiotics varies depending on whether they are in a free aqueous form or bound to another material. There is no standard method to identify the exact dose required to degrade each antibiotic; hence, to determine the precise dose needed for antibiotics in both water and cellulose-bound states, a high-throughput technique has been optimised using a sterile 96-well plate.

Different concentrations of Chloramphenicol (CAP) and Oxy-Tetracycline (OT) in their aqueous form were exposed to EBI. The degradation was assessed using a simple well diffusion assay. Similarly, 40 antibiotics impregnated in a cellulose matrix, were exposed to EBI, with degradation measured through a disc diffusion method.

EBI-exposed 96-well plates containing different concentrations of antibiotics showed degradation, as indicated by a reduced zone of inhibition. Similarly, cellulose-bound antibiotics exposed to EBI also exhibited a decreased zone of inhibition.

It concludes that 1. Cost Optimization: Electron beam treatment is expensive, but diluting antibiotic solutions reduces the required dose and overall operating cost, 2. Form Effect: Antibiotics bound to cellulose need higher doses; extracting them into an aqueous form lowers the dose and processing cost. 3. Simple Testing: No special equipment, such as LC-MS are not required, using a simple agar well or disc diffusion tests can effectively determine the required degradation dose.

Assessment of Culture Media on Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler) on Brinjal for Most Suitable Mycelia Growth under in-vitro Conditions

Anil Kumar Sharma — 2025-12-06

Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.), also referred to as eggplant, aubergine or garden egg, is a globally important vegetable crop, with India ranking among the top producers. Its cultivation is often hindered by foliar diseases, particularly leaf spot caused by Alternaria alternata, which can result in significant yield losses. Effective management of this disease requires understanding the growth and sporulation behavior of the pathogen under different nutritional conditions. The present study evaluated the effect of fourteen solid culture media, including natural, semi-synthetic and synthetic types, on the mycelial growth and sporulation of A. alternata isolated from infected brinjal leaves. Observations on radial growth, colony morphology and sporulation were recorded under controlled laboratory conditions. The results demonstrated significant differences among the media in supporting fungal development. Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) supported the maximum radial growth (86.67 mm), followed by Richard Agar (79.67 mm), Asthana and Hawkers medium (74.33 mm) and Oat Meal Agar (71.67 mm), whereas the lowest growth (41.00 mm) was observed on Brinjal Leaf Agar. Colony characteristics varied with media with colours ranging from grayish-white to black and textures classified as smooth, compact, or fluffy. Sporulation also differed significantly; PDA, Oat Meal Agar, Richard Agar and Asthana and Hawkers medium exhibited excellent (++++) sporulation, while Brinjal Leaf Agar and Coon’s Agar showed poor (+) sporulation. These variations are likely due to differences in nutrient composition and the type of carbon sources available in each medium. PDA proved to be the most suitable medium for in vitro growth and sporulation of A. alternata, providing a reliable substrate for further studies on its pathogenicity and biology.

Optimization of Regeneration and Agrobacterium-Mediated Transformation Protocol for Black Rice (Oryza sativa L. cv. Chakhao Poireiton)

Renold George — 2025-12-08

Aims: To develop and optimise an efficient in vitro regeneration and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation protocol for black rice (Oryza sativa L. cv. Chakhao poireiton), a nutritionally rich but low-yielding and stress-susceptible variety, thereby establishing a reproducible system for its genetic improvement.

Study Design: The study used an experimental design with seven callus-induction treatments (combinations of VACA and 2,4-D) and four shoot-regeneration treatments (various kinetin and kinetin–BAP combinations). Each treatment was replicated three times, with multiple callus samples per replicate. Afterwards, we performed Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation using strain LBA4404 to evaluate gene delivery efficiency.

Place and Duration of Study: This research was conducted at the Agricultural Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Agricultural Science and Technology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, India.

Methodology: Mature black rice embryos were cultured on N6-based media with varying concentrations of 2,4-D (1.0 to 2.5 mg L⁻¹) and VACA (0 to 1.0 g L⁻¹) to assess callus induction. Regeneration potential was evaluated with different combinations of kinetin and BAP in N6RH50 medium. To determine the minimum lethal dose for selecting transformants, hygromycin sensitivity tests were performed at concentrations ranging from 0 to 60 mg L⁻¹. Transformation was conducted using Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain LBA4404 with the binary vector pCAMBIA1304, and successful T-DNA delivery was confirmed through GUS histochemical assays.

Results: The combination of 1 g L⁻¹ VACA and 2 mg L⁻¹ 2,4-D yielded the highest callus induction frequency (60%) with friable, embryogenic calli. The maximum shoot regeneration rate (55%) was achieved with both 4 mg L⁻¹ and 5 mg L⁻¹ kinetin4 - –5 mg L⁻¹ kinetin in N6RH50 medium. Hygromycin at 30 mg L⁻¹ was found to be the minimum lethal concentration for selection. Transformed calli exhibited strong blue colouration in GUS assays, confirming successful gene delivery.

Conclusion: The optimised regeneration and transformation system provides a reliable, reproducible platform for the genetic improvement of black rice, laying the foundation for future molecular breeding and functional genomics to enhance yield and stress tolerance.

Impact of Novel Purified Fatty Acid Esterases on the Biochemical Properties and Shelf Life of Finger Millet

Sunil Taak — 2025-12-08

This study focused on isolating fatty acid esterase from finger millet flour and examining its physicochemical and kinetic characteristics. The enzyme was partially purified from fresh flour of the GPU 28 finger millet variety using ammonium sulphate precipitation and dialysis, followed by Size Exclusion chromatography. Gel filtration on Sephadex G-75 separated the enzyme into two novel isoforms, named Fatty acid esterase I and II. These isoforms were purified 4.33 and 9.83-fold, with recoveries of 18.35% and 14.48% of the initial enzyme activity, respectively. Both isoforms exhibited optimal activity at pH 8.0 and 45 °C. Their molecular weights, as determined by gel filtration, were 112.2 kDa for isoform I and 19.95 kDa for isoform II. Fatty acid esterase I showed greater thermal stability compared to isoform II. The catalytic efficiency (Vmax/Km) values were 13.74 units mL⁻¹ µM⁻¹ for isoform I and 12.11 units mL⁻¹ µM⁻¹ for isoform II. Both isoforms were inhibited by ascorbic acid. The enzyme displayed a preference for substrates with short-chain fatty acids, especially p-nitrophenyl butyrate. The low Km values for p-nitrophenyl butyrate indicate a strong substrate affinity, which may contribute to the rapid lipid hydrolysis observed in stored pearl millet flour. These properties suggest the enzyme’s potential in producing low molecular weight esters, enhancing flour shelf life in the food industry, and use in chemical applications. Increase in fat content was directly proportional to an increase in Specific fat acidity and fat acidity in finger millet flour. Use of the in vitro inhibitory response of fatty acid esterase by ascorbic acid may be explored in arresting in situ hydrolysis of lipids in flour for increasing the shelf life of millet flour. Thus, the Development of fat acidity and specific fat acidity in stored flour strongly correlated with lipid content. Additionally, no specific studies exist in the literature on the shelf-life kinetics of finger millet flour. Recent research has instead focused on pearl millet flour shelf-life kinetics, providing essential quantitative kinetic data for predicting shelf life and optimizing storage conditions. Research is required to advance novel processing interventions that suppress both hydrolytic and oxidative rancidity pathways in millet flour, thereby achieving superior storage stability.

Character Association for Growth and Yield Parameters in Orange in Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) Genotypes

Pallavi Wani — 2025-12-08

Correlation analysis serves as an important statistical tool to determine the strength and direction of associations among key plant traits and provides valuable insight into predicting yield responses based on changes in specific characteristics. Sweet potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] is a cross-pollinated crop and highly heterozygous in nature, in which many of the characters show continuous variation. Selection for tuber yield, which is a polygenic trait, often leads to changes in other characters. The present study was undertaken to characterize morphological and quantitative traits of sweet potato and to assess the interrelationships among these traits in relation to total storage root yield. A research was carried out involving sixteen orange-fleshed sweet potato genotypes to examine the connections between traits and their direct and indirect effects on yield, aiming to comprehend how relationships among characters affect tuber yield. The genotypes were defined according to their reactions to 10 morphological and 18 quantitative traits. Correlation analyses were performed on 18 traits related to yield and its components. Character association revealed a positive and significant relationship between tuber yield and the number of tubers per plant, yield per plant, vine length, internodal length, leaf area, and tuber diameter. The correlation results obtained in the present study indicated that parameters viz., vine length, number of leaves per vine, number of branches per vine, number of tubers per vine, tuber weight, tuber length and tuber girth are the important components of yield as they showed positive significant association with yield.

Weather-Driven Dynamics of Rice Blast Disease in Kerala’s Lowland Rice Ecosystem

Aryasree Vidyadharan — 2025-12-08

Rice blast, caused by Pyricularia oryzae, continues to be one of the most devastating diseases of rice and poses a significant threat to crop productivity in the Kuttanad lowland ecosystem of Kerala. To understand the spatial pattern of disease occurrence and its association with microclimatic variables, a field survey was conducted during the Rabi season of 2024–2025 across twenty-one major rice-growing locations. Disease incidence (DI) and Percent Disease Index (PDI) were recorded from randomly selected ten one square meter quadrats in each field. Substantial spatial variation was observed among locations, with DI ranging from 14.57% to 66.42% and PDI from 10.53% to 64.41%, the higher disease level occurring at Kaduthuruthy, Kainakary and Purakkad.

Correlation analysis revealed that relative humidity and dew point temperature were strongly and positively associated with DI and PDI, indicating their critical role in promoting conidial germination and infection. Maximum temperature showed a significant negative correlation, signifying its suppressive effect on disease development. Although rainfall was not significantly correlated with DI and PDI, descriptive observations indicated moderate rainfall tended to support higher disease levels compared to extremely low or excessive rainfall, suggesting that rainfall acts mainly as a moisture-supporting factor, and its influence becomes evident only when accompanied by favourable humidity and temperature.

The study highlights that the humid microclimate of the Kuttanad tract, characterised by high relative humidity, favourable dew point and moderate temperatures, creates highly conducive environments for blast epidemics during the Rabi season.

Cross-tolerance and Stress Memory in Rice: Evaluating Drought-tolerant Genotypes for Salinity Tolerance and Priming Effects

Saumya Kumari — 2025-12-08

Rice, the staple food for over half the world’s population, is highly susceptible to salinity and drought stresses that often coincide and elicit overlapping physiological responses. This study explored stress memory and cross-tolerance mechanisms in four rice genotypes subjected to a single reproductive-stage salinity stress (T3) or repeated vegetative-reproductive stresses (T4). While T3 plants exhibited superior morphological traits, T4 plants showed enhanced biochemical preparedness, including higher protein, peroxidase, proline, and flavonoid content. Despite reduced vegetative vigour, T4 plants yielded slightly higher grain, indicating that stress memory-driven physiological acclimation enhances reproductive tolerance. Drought-tolerant genotypes Dhaksha and GEN_214 consistently outperformed susceptible genotypes, showing strong osmolyte accumulation, antioxidant activity, and water retention. However, both stress regimes caused significant (>82%) yield loss, confirming that reproductive stages remain highly vulnerable. The findings revealed that shared osmolyte and antioxidant responses mediate cross-tolerance between drought and salinity, highlighting salinity screening as a valuable surrogate approach for developing drought-resilient rice cultivars under climate stress.

Phenology and Yield Losses Caused by Croton hirtus (Euphorbiaceae) in Maize (Zea mays) in Central Western Côte d’Ivoire

Arsène Gué — 2025-12-09

Croton hirtus L’Hér. (Euphorbiaceae) is a major weed in food crops in Central Western Côte d’Ivoire. However, its phenology and precise impact on crop yield are not yet known. In order to study its phenology and impact on maize crop losses, field experiments were carried out in Daloa, Central Western Côte d’Ivoire, in 2023 and 2024 for phenology study and 2023 for maize yield assessment. Croton hirtus phenology was determined according to weeding practices on five plots of 50 m² each study year, and a phenogram was established. Yield was measured on maize plants planted along with different densities (0, 6, 12, 18, and 31 plants of C. hirtus m-²). Yield trial was laid in a randomized complete block design with three replicates per density. A linear model was performed to estimate the effect of C hirtus density on maize yield and yield loss. In terms of phenology, Croton hirtus seedlings emergence was important at the start of the growing season. Regarding weed control methods, hoeing resulted in strong emergence of seedlings of the studied weed. The application of crop-selective herbicides delayed weed emergence by one week compared to hoeing. Regarding yield, the highest maize seed yield was obtained in weed-free plots (3.84 t ha⁻¹), while maize yield at weed infestation levels of 6, 12, 18, and 31 plants m-² was reduced by 19.76%, 25.11%, 27.21%, and 32.48%, respectively, compared to weed-free plots. In light of these findings, to reduce maize yield losses to non-significant levels, it is proposed to reduce C. hirtus densities below 12 plants per m² in maize fields at the beginning of the growing season by using selective pre-emergence or post-emergence herbicides.

Serological and Molecular Identification of CMV Subgroup IA Infecting Bhut Jolokia (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) in Assam, India

Routhu Gowtham Kumar — 2025-12-09

Bhut Jolokia (Capsicum chinense), a high-value chili pepper indigenous to Northeast India, faces significant yield constraints due to viral diseases. Extensive field surveys conducted during 2020-2021 in the major Bhut Jolokia growing districts of Assam (Jorhat, Golaghat, Lakhimpur, and Dhemaji) revealed a high incidence of virus-like symptoms, including mosaic, mottling, leaf distortion, and stunting. Serological detection using Double Antibody Sandwich Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (DAS-ELISA) confirmed the widespread presence of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), with disease incidence ranging from 30% to 80%. Molecular analysis further validated these findings. Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) using specific primers amplified fragments of the replicase (1052 bp) and coat protein (1130 bp) genes. Nucleotide sequencing of these amplicons revealed 98-100% identity among the Assam isolates. Phylogenetic analysis based on both genes unequivocally clustered the Assam CMV isolates within the subgroup IA, showing closest homology with other Indian isolates from chili. This study provides conclusive evidence of CMV as a predominant viral pathogen infecting Bhut Jolokia in Assam and offers essential genetic information for developing effective management strategies.

Epidemiology and Virulence Profiling of Colletotrichum spp. Causing Turmeric Leaf Spot in Kerala, India

Govindh A. Nair — 2025-12-10

Turmeric, Curcuma longa L., is an economically important spice crop that is increasingly threatened by leaf spot disease caused by species of Colletotrichum genus. An epidemiological survey was conducted across major turmeric-growing regions in Kerala, India, covering the districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Palakkad. High disease pressure was recorded across all surveyed locations, with the Percent Disease Index (PDI) reaching a critical maximum of 64.07% in the Vellanad region (Thiruvananthapuram). A total of twelve fungal isolates were obtained and characterized based on morphological, cultural, and pathogenic features. Among them, isolate CT3, collected from the highly diseased region, displayed significantly higher virulence, evidenced by its shortest duration for symptom appearance (6.33 days) and the largest necrotic lesion area (12.92 cm²). Molecular characterization of CT3 through 28S rRNA sequencing confirmed the isolate as Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (PX369133). This study verifies the presence of highly virulent strains of C. gloeosporioides associated with severe leaf spot epidemics in Kerala, and provides essential insights to support the development of Integrated Disease Management (IDM) strategies, particularly in guiding fungicide application schedules, screening for resistant cultivars, and designing region-specific management interventions.

Monitoring of the Seasonal Occurrence of Fall Armyworm Populations in Zea mays L. in Nagaland

Yengkhom Suraj Singh — 2025-12-10

Background: Maize is the second most important crop next to rice, and is grown in all the districts of Nagaland. It is affected by many abiotic and biotic stresses. Among those constraints, insect pests are the most limiting factor in the successful cultivation of maize starting from germination to harvesting.

Aim: The study aimed to correlate leaf infestation percentage and the number of larvae infested with the weather parameters in maize.

Methodology: A Randomized Block Design was adopted. The study was conducted at the Department of Entomology, SAS, Nagaland University, Medziphema campus, Nagaland, from May to September during 2022 and 2023. Maize variety BIO-9637 Maharaja was used to observe the incidence of the pest. The readings were taken in a zig-zag pattern, in the form of a “W” pattern in the field. The population per plant were expressed as the mean of three replications. Each replication of data was the mean of data obtained from 10 plants. The data obtained were subjected to ANOVA. Larval count and per cent leaf damage were recorded once a week during the crop period.

Results: The incidence of fall armyworm (FAW) infestation was first recorded in 24^th SMW at 1.22 larvae/10 plants during 2022 and 1.32 larvae/10 plants during 2023. Initial leaf damage was recorded at 5.32% during 2022 and 5.78% during 2023. The infestation increased steadily, reaching its peak at 83.86% on 28^th SMW (2022) and 80.25% on 27^th SMW (2023). Correlation analysis revealed that in both years, leaf damage and larval incidence were positively and significantly associated with maximum (r=0.759* and 0.850* respectively) and minimum temperatures (r=0.664* and 0.832* respectively), while relative humidity exerted a negative influence. Rainfall showed little effect.

Conclusion: FAW incidence in maize is strongly temperature-dependent, with humidity exerting a significant negative effect, and rainfall having minimal influence. Management strategies should be proactive during periods of high temperature and low humidity, with interventions timed within the short window between pest establishment and peak damage.

Variability of Sclerotium rolfsii Causing Collar Rot of Yams in Kerala, India

Neha Anil — 2025-12-10

The present study investigated on the diversity, pathogenicity, and cultural characteristics of Sclerotium rolfsii associated with collar rot in tuber crops across six Agro-Ecological Units (AEUs) of Kerala, India. Thirty-two samples were collected from infected elephant foot yam (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius), Taro (Colocasia esculenta), and Dioscorea (Dioscorea alata) plants in five districts during 2023-2024, exhibiting typical symptoms such as leaf yellowing, collar rot, and sclerotia formation. The pathogen was isolated using standard isolation techniques on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), and pathogenicity is proved by Koch’s postulates by mass multiplying tha pathogen in sand oat meal and inoculating in soil. Virulence assays revealed IA17 (from Orkatteri) was identified as the most aggressive isolate in elephant foot yam, while IC4 (from Chonadam) and ID3 (from Cherthala) were most virulent on Colocasia and Dioscorea, respectively. Cultural characterization demonstrated significant variability in mycelial growth, time for sclerotial initiation, number of sclerotia, and their distribution patterns. Notably, IA10 produced the highest number of sclerotia (211 per plate), whereas IC1 had the lowest (25). The findings underscore the morphological and pathogenic diversity of S. rolfsii in Kerala, with implications for resistance breeding strategies against the diseases in yams.

Comparative Efficacy of Insecticide Molecules against the Management of Banana Pseudostem Weevil, Odoiporus longicollis Olivier in ‘Sugandhi’ Banana

Venkatesh Hosamani — 2025-12-10

The pseudostem weevil (Odoiporus longicollis Olivier) is a major pest of banana, causing significant yield losses. A field experiment was conducted over two consecutive seasons (2021 and 2022) using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with twelve treatments, including various insecticidal applications, a standard check and an untreated control, each replicated three times. The present study demonstrated that the stem injection with dinotefuran 20% SG at 5 ml/plant (30 g in 500 ml water) and soil application of chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR at 10 g/plant were the most effective treatments. These recorded the lowest mean damage grade indices (1.23 and 1.48, respectively), highest benefit-cost (B:C) ratios (4.99 and 4.71), maximum yields (42.87 and 40.13 t/ha) and highest net returns (₹514,198 and ₹474,320, respectively). Both treatments significantly reduced the total number of active weevil life stages and produced the maximum bunch weights (18.64 and 17.61 kg) and highest number of hands per bunch (15.40 and 15.20). Clothianidin 50% WDG applied basally at 0.25 g/3L/plant and fipronil 0.6% GR applied to soil at 10 g/plant were the next most effective treatments recording mean damage grade indices of 1.52 and 1.57, B:C ratios of 4.39 and 4.53, yields of 38.79 and 38.73 t/ha and net returns of ₹449,396 and ₹452,801, respectively. These treatments also showed considerable reductions in active weevil stages and improvements in bunch weight (16.87 and 16.77 kg) and number of hands per bunch (14.40 and 14.43). In contrast, the untreated control exhibited the highest damage grade index (4.16), the lowest B:C ratio (2.57), the lowest yield (19.97 t/ha), lowest bunch weight (8.80 kg), and the least number of hands per bunch (11.13). These findings indicate that dinotefuran and chlorantraniliprole are highly effective for the management of O. longicollis in banana, offering significant agronomic and economic benefits followed by Fipronil and clothianidin.

Evaluation of Dye Uptake and Fastness in Degummed Banana Fibre across Different Dye Concentrations

B S Akhila — 2025-12-10

Banana fibre, a natural and biodegradable material derived from pseudostem of the plant, has gained growing attention in the textile industry due to its strength, availability, and environmental advantages. However, its lignocellulosic structure requires systematic evaluation to understand its interaction with various dyeing conditions. This study focuses on the dyeing behavior of banana fibre using three different colour red, blue and yellow applied at three concentration levels 1%, 2% and 3%, with the aim of assessing key colouration parameters relevant to textile performance and sustainability. The samples treated were then subjected to standard tests for light fastness (1-8), washing fastness (0-5), and colour value. The L*, a*, b* and ΔE* value measurements were undertaken to quantify dye uptake and visual colour intensity, enabling an understanding of shade development across concentrations. The study highlights the potential of banana fibre as a viable alternative textile material, capable of achieving satisfactory colouration properties while supporting sustainable material development.

Impact of Planting Schedules, Rooting Media and IBA Treatments on Hardwood Cuttings of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa

Ganpat Gehlot — 2025-12-11

Aims: To determine the best planting time and suitable media combination in forbetter growth of Pomegranate cuttings.

Study Design: The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) comprising nine treatment combinations replicated thrice.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted during 2021–2022 at the Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, Mandsaur, under R.V.S.K.V.V., Gwalior (M.P.), India.

Methodology: The treatments consisted of two IBA concentrations (2500 and 3000 ppm) and three planting times, tested across different rooting media (soil, vermicompost + sand, and farmyard manure). Significant variations were observed among the treatments for all vegetative and root growth parameters.

Results: The treatment combination of planting on 22 February (P₂) with IBA at 3000 ppm (I₂) produced the most favorable outcomes. This combination (P₂I₂) resulted in the earliest sprouting (15.53 days), the highest percentage of sprouted cuttings (40.44%), and the greatest number of sprouts per cutting (6.13 at 45 days and 9.00 at 60 days). It also achieved the maximum shoot length (27.77 cm), number of leaves (71.27), leaf area (43.63 cm²), and chlorophyll content (36.81 SPAD units). Similarly, root development was significantly improved under this treatment, with the longest root length (25.83 cm), highest number of primary roots (17.27), secondary roots (57.00), root fresh weight (2.57 g), and root dry weight (1.93 g). Furthermore, this treatment recorded the highest survival rate (95.66%) and the lowest mortality rate (4.34%) at 75 days after planting.

Conclusion: This treatment combination substantially enhances rooting efficiency, vegetative growth, and survival rate, demonstrating its suitability for large-scale propagation and nursery establishment of pomegranate in this region.

Assessment of the Center of Gravity in Various Physiological States of Sahiwal Cattle

Anupam Soni — 2025-12-11

Experiment was conducted on162 purebred Sahiwal cattle were selected from Bull Mother Experimental Farm and Government Cattle Breeding Farm located at the campus of College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh on the basis of their physiological status viz dry cows, lactating cows, pregnant cows, heifers and calves to measure the location of centre of gravity. The comparison of centre of gravity of dry, pregnant and lactating cows was found to be significant (p<0.05) and the centre of gravity of dry, pregnant and lactating cows was found to be 16.454 ± 0.394 inches, 15.83 ± 0.301inches and 18.21 ± 0.644 inches from hind limb respectively. On other hand, the point of centre of gravity of 0-3-month calves, <1 yr calves and heifers was found to be significant (p<0.05). The point of centre of gravity of 0-3-month calves, < 1 yr calves and heifers was found to be 7.81 ± 0.362inches, 9.029 ± 0.235 inches and 12.419 ± 0.947 inches from hind limb respectively.

Utilization of Natural Dyes from Marigold and Rose for Colour Improvement in Dry Flower Technology

Kalyani T.G — 2025-12-11

Natural dyes from floral waste offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic colourants in dry flower technology. This study aimed to explore the utilization of natural dyes from marigold and rose for enhancing colour quality in dry flower technology, by assessing the impact of dip dyeing, spraying after drying, and absorption dyeing on colour absorption, strength, and fastness characteristics. Dyes were extracted through microwave-assisted aqueous extraction (marigold) and solvent extraction (rose), and treatments were arranged in a Completely Randomized Design with three replications. Colour absorption, colour strength, light fastness, rubbing fastness, and wash fastness were assessed using a hedonic scoring scale and analysed via the Kruskal Wallis test. Dip dyeing method consistently resulted in the highest colour uptake and fastness due to superior pigment penetration into petal tissues. Spraying after drying produced moderate colouration but poor rubbing and wash fastness owing to superficial dye deposition, while absorption dyeing showed minimal effectiveness due to limited vascular dye transport. Overall, dip dyeing emerged as the most efficient method for achieving uniform and stable colouration in dried marigold and rose flowers using natural dyes derived from floral waste.

Estrogenic and Reproductive Effects of Hibiscus Sabdariffa Calyx Aqueous Extract in Female Wistar Rats

Allassane Kone — 2025-12-11

As part of this study, we evaluated the effect of an aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyxes on the fertility of female rats. The objective was to explore the estrogenic effect of this plant on Rattus norvegicus. Fifteen rats, selected for their regular cycle, were divided into three groups of five and received either distilled water or doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg of the extract, administered daily by gavage for 30 days. The results highlighted significant changes in the estrous cycle, including a lengthening of the estrous phase and a reduction in the diestrus phase, with the effect being more pronounced at the 250 mg/kg of bw dose. Histological analysis of the ovaries of the rats revealed that the extract did not cause any damage to these organs. The ovaries of the treated rats showed an increased number of follicles at various stages of maturation as well as corpus luteum compared to the control rats. Furthermore, examination of uterine horn sections showed that after treatment with 250 mg/kg bw, there was an average increase in uterine lumen diameter, endometrial thickness, and average uterine gland development compared to control rats.

Impact of Diverse Rice-based Cropping Systems on Soil Microbial Count and Enzyme Activities in the Western Coastal Plains of India

Rohith A. K — 2025-12-12

Soil biological degradation in rice monoculture necessitates diversification strategies, yet the persistence of microbial populations and their activities remain unclear. The study was undertaken in the western coastal plains of southern Kerala to assess the impact of diverse rice-based cropping systems on soil biology. Soil enzymes, viz., dehydrogenase, urease, and acid phosphatase and microbial population across three seasons in ten diverse rice-based cropping sequences were assessed. Legume-integrated systems meant for soil health (T₃: Rice–Bush cowpea–Groundnut + Dhaincha; T₄: Rice + Dhaincha–Rice + Dhaincha–Redgram + Groundnut) and vegetable-diversified rotation meant for income enhancement (T₉: Rice–Sweet potato–Cucumber) achieved the highest dehydrogenase activSities of 123.09, 118.93, and 124.00 μg TPF g⁻¹ 24h⁻¹, representing an 88% increase over rice-fallow control. Urease peaked at 102.05 and 100.10 mg urea g⁻¹ soil h⁻¹ in T₃ and T₉ with 45% enhancement against control, while acid phosphatase reached 38.18–38.77 μg PNP g⁻¹ h⁻¹ with 34–36% increase. Total microbial count increased 30–34% in diversified systems in a range of 19.11–19.79 log CFU g⁻¹ against the control (14.75 log CFU g⁻¹) with bacteria (36% increase) and actinomycetes (35% increase) responding significantly while fungi remained invariant. T₃ (Rice– Bush cowpea– Groundnut + Dhaincha) is optimal, achieving highest microbial counts (19.79 log CFU g⁻¹) and peak enzymatic activities through synergistic legume integration and green manure incorporation.

Validation of Median Lethal Dose (LD₅₀) Estimates for EMS and SA in M₁ Populations of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek)

S MD Basid Ali — 2025-12-03

To validate the laboratory determined LD₅₀ doses of EMS and SA, responses in two mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) genotypes i.e., Pusa 1031 and Pusa 1431 through estimating germination % and seedling survival % under field conditions in M₁ generation. A randomised block design (RBD) with two genotypes × two mutagens × three replications were used. The experiment was conducted at the Institutional farm, College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences, Central Agricultural University, Umiam (Meghalaya), during pre-kharif 2023. Seeds of Pusa 1031 and Pusa 1431 were treated with predetermined LD₅₀ concentrations of EMS and SA. For each genotype and mutagen combination, 375 seeds were sown to assess germination % at 10 days after sowing (DAS) and seedling survival % at 30 DAS. Observations were compared to evaluate whether the field responses matched the expected ~50% lethality threshold. Germination percentages ranged from 49.33% to 53.87%, while seedling survival % after 30 DAS varied between 46.93% to 52.00%, with Pusa 1031 exhibiting slightly greater tolerance than Pusa 1431. Both EMS and SA treatments produced values clustering around the expected 50% lethality threshold, confirming the accuracy and biological validity of the LD₅₀ doses. Graphical trends further supported the consistency of LD₅₀ induced reductions. The validated LD₅₀ doses of EMS and SA consistently produced the expected median lethality in the M₁ generation, confirming their suitability for initiating a mutation breeding programme in mungbean. These results provide a strong foundation for progressing to M₂ generation screening for beneficial mutations.

The Paradigm Shift of Instant Mobile DNA Analysis in Forensic and Genomic Applications

Basanta Kumar Panigrahi — 2025-12-03

Mobile DNA analysis is a forensic tool for rapid, on-site genetic profiling by integrating the processes of DNA extraction, amplification, separation, and detection into portable, automated systems beyond the laboratory and for field use. The DNA analysis in practice is time-consuming, expensive for processing delays and laboratory backlogs. The search provides a good overview of mobile Rapid DNA analysis platforms such as ANDE, RapidHIT ID and the Oxford Nanopore MinION which are fast, suitable and insitu use for forensic engineers and humanitarian applications. These decision-making handy gadgets have application in supporting crime scenes, borders and disaster sites. For rapid DNA testing for practitioners and policy makers the device serves as an introductory, didactic tool for collating technical, operational and ethical considerations unitedly. The growing need for obtaining reliable DNA results instantly, accurately and economically in real time applications for law enforcement, border security, disaster victim identification, outbreak response, and forensic and biological analyses. Mobile DNA analysis turned out as a transformative advancement bridging the gap between conventional laboratory-based profiling and real-time field operations. Its advantages include speed, portability, and real-time data generation; however, challenges such as high costs, environmental limitations, restricted sample types, and concerns over data security and ethical governance must be addressed for its widespread adoption. Overall, this innovation marks a paradigm shift in forensic and genomic applications, promoting faster and more accessible human identification and genetic analysis.

Quantitative Assessment of Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield Attributes Using Line × Tester Derived Generations in Pea (Pisum sativum L.)

Utkarsh Tiwari — 2025-12-02

The present study, “Quantitative Assessment of Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield Attributes Using Line × Tester Derived Generations in Pea (Pisum sativum L,),” was conducted at the Oil Seed Farm, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, during rabi seasons of 2022–23, 2023–24, and 2024–25. Sixteen lines and four testers were crossed using a line × tester mating design to evaluate genetic parameters in F₁ and F₂ generations. Heritability estimates varied widely, with high heritability in F₁ observed for 100-seed weight and seed yield per plant, while the remaining traits showed moderate to low heritability. In F₂, seed yield per plant again exhibited the highest heritability, whereas most traits showed low estimates, indicating strong environmental influence. Genetic advance as percent of mean (GA%) revealed high values for number of pod clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, biological yield per plant, harvest index, and seed yield per plant in both generations, indicating additive gene action. Low heritability with low GA% for days to maturity, shelling percentage, and protein content indicated minimal response to direct selection. The findings emphasize that yield and major yield components can be effectively improved by selection in later generations, while traits strongly influenced by the environment require alternative breeding strategies.

Emergence of Riemerella anatipestifer Infection in Domestic Ducks in Assam, India

Naba Jyoti Deka — 2025-12-05

Duck farming is an important component of poultry production in India, contributing substantially to both egg and meat production. According to the 2019 livestock census, Assam's total duck population is approximately 12.04 million. In Assam and the northeastern region of India, ducks are primarily raised by marginal farmers. With the growing changing pattern of climate around the world, there is outbreak of new diseases of poultry in many areas. Riemerella anatipestifer (RA) infection, a bacterial disease that is becoming prevalent in Assam and causing considerable economic losses for duck farmers. The present study was aimed to conduct an epidemiological study on the outbreak of RA infection in Assam. Samples of both nasal and throat swabs were collected from both sick and ailing ducks across various organized and unorganized duck farms throughout Assam. Twenty six out of 40 samples showed cultural characteristics were tentatively identified as RA. The infection was confirmed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the Z gene, which yielded an amplicon of 546 base pairs (bp). The highest prevalence of PCR positivity was detected in pharyngeal swabs (73.33%), followed by ocular swabs (63.00%). This study concludes that RA infection is an emerging endemic infection among the duck population of Assam.

First Molecular Evidence of Sacbrood Virus in Indian Honey Bee (Apis cerana indica F.) Colonies of Kerala, India

Saisri Manchikatla — 2025-12-06

Aim: The study aimed to isolate, characterize and identify the pathogenic entity responsible for viral disease in infected brood of Apis cerana indica colonies of different locations of Kerala.

Study Design: Purposive sampling of infected brood samples, RT-PCR, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.

Place and Duration of Study: Collection of infected brood through purposive sampling was done from the Indian bee apiaries of native beekeepers under the authority of Department of Agricultural Entomology, Kerala Agricultural University, College of Agriculture, Vellayani. Isolation and molecular characterization studies were performed at AICRP on Honey Bees and Pollinators during the period from February 2024 to March 2025.

Methodology: The study involved a purposive sampling of virus infected larvae/pupae from the Indian bee apiaries of Kerala based on the appearance of symptoms. Further, samples were subjected to isolation and characterization using molecular techniques (RNA isolation, RT-PCR and Sequencing). Phylogenetic analysis was performed to realize the evolutionary relationship of the isolates.

Results: The purposive sampling for virus disease incidence resulted in four sample collections (AYI270724, PCK221225, KOL271024, CTPM270425) based on the symptoms from different Indian bee apiaries of various districts (Kollam, Kottayam, Kasargod & Malappuram) of Kerala. The characteristic symptoms observed were in the late larval to pupal stages, the brood cells were uncapped with the head of the pupa oriented upwards exhibiting a sac-like appearance and retarded development. Molecular characterization of four RNA isolates (AYI01, PCK03, KOL01, CTPM01) and RT-PCR using primers specific to ‘Polyprotein gene of SBV genome’ resulted in only one isolate (CTPM01) Chattipparamba from Malappuram produced amplicons (~450-480 bp), while no amplification was observed from the other three isolates (AYI01, PCK03, KOL01). Sequencing of the PCR product revealed that the virus isolate (CTPM01) showed close homology to sacbrood virus isolate II10, Indian sacbrood virus (AcSBV-India-II10) infecting Apis cerana indica with sequence identity 97.69% (NCBI accession number- PX055611.1.).

Conclusion: Molecular characterization of virus infected brood samples revealed that the key pathogenic agent is the Sacbrood virus. The isolate from Malappuram showed close sequence homology to Indian sacbrood viral strains, expanding the known geographic distribution of this virus in Indian honey bee populations. These findings highlight the first molecular evidence of Sacbrood virus infection in the Indian honey bee colonies of Kerala. This further strengthens the understanding of epidemiology of sacbrood virus in Kerala and forms a foundation for future research and effective management strategies to protect Indian bee colonies of Kerala.