011328   Sethy K;Swain P;Behera K;Nayak S M;Barik S R; Patro P;Meher P (NO, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Orissa Univ of Agric, Bhubaneswar-751 003, Email: babuivri@gmail.com) : Effect of turmeric (Curcuma longa) supplementation on growth and blood chemistry of broilers. Explor Anim med Res 2016, 6(1), 75-9.

To access the effect of turmeric (Curcuma longa) supplementation on growth and blood chemistry of broiler chickens, seventy five day old straight run coloured synthetic broiler chicks were randomly divided into 3 groups (25 chicks per group). Group I served as control (without any supplementation), where as birds in groups II and III were supplemented with 0.5% and 1.0% Curcuma longa powder respectively and the trail was lasted for 7 weeks, during which weekly body weight changes were recorded. Blood samples were collected at the end of the experiment to study the blood profile of birds. The results indicated that addition of Curcuma longa powder caused significant (P<0.05) increase in body weight gain and blood Hb concentration. On the other hand Curcuma longa supplementation had non- significant (P<62>0.05) effect on blood biochemical parameters of bird. The present results confirmed the beneficial effects of dietary Curcuma longa powder to improve body weight and Hb concentration of broiler chickens.

3 tables, 18 ref

011327   Serekpayev N;Popov V;Stybayev G;Nogayev A; Ansabayeva A (NO, S.Seifullin Kazakh Agro-Technical Univ-Astana, Kazakhstan) : Agroecological aspects of chickpea growing in the dry steppe zone of akmola region, Northern Kazakhstan. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(3), 1341-51.

The aim of this study was to develop and offer technology for growing chickpea which comprises the application of stimulants for biological growth and mineral fertilizers adapted to conditions of dry steppe zone of Akmola region in Northern Kazakhstan. To achieve the goal, the study was focused on determining the combined effect of an integrated system of optimal agro-ecological conditions, soil cultivation technology (i.e. zero tillage versus traditional) and addition of nutrients (fertilizers, stimulants of legumes) on the growth and productivity of chickpea. This research shows that chickpea is well developed in growing season under traditional technology as compared to the zero-tillage technology, i.e. traditional soil cultivation improves germination and vitality of - 366 - seeds and makes effective use of soil aeration and soil porosity in the soil layer of 0-20 cm. The results show that the combinations of mineral fertilizer CaSO₄ + 2H₂O₅ + Rizotorfin (root inoculants) and the combination of Izagry Phosphorus + Rizotorfin can be recommended to farmers. The application of Izagry Phosphorus reduces the phenophases' elapsing time during chickpea growth and the total length (in days) of the chickpea growth. It gives farmers an opportunity to apply late sowing, for example in early June, and make use of higher temperatures during the main growing season that could have a positive impact on biological productivity of chickpea. It also improves chickpea morphological parameters (i.e. plant height) which produces a significant increase in biological productivity, i.e. yield, which was significantly higher under the traditional technology than under the zero-tillage. A remarkable increase of grain yield by 88% to 95% compared to the control variant, upon treatment with Izagry Phosphorus and Izagry Phosphorus + Rizotorfin, respectively, was observed. It provides new economic incentives for farmers that practice environmentally-friendly farming in Kazakhstan.

3 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

011326   Satpute S T;Singh M (Soil and Water Engineering Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: sanjay4471@gmail.com) : Modeling phosphorus distribution under different fertigation strategies in onion (Allium cepa L.) crop. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 720-9.

The understanding of soil and nutrient dynamics under drip fertigation is relevant for crop production as well as water and nutrient management. The aim of this study was to generate information about the distribution of phosphorus (P) under different fertigation strategies for onion production on sandy clay loam soil during 2007-2008 to 2008-2009. The study involved field experiment, laboratory analysis and modeling of P distribution. The phosphorus distribution data in the field were collected, analyzed and used to calibrate and validate the solute transport model HYDRUS-2D for sandy clay loam soil. The performance of HYDRUS-2D was evaluated by comparing its simulated values with the observed values of soil moisture and nutrient concentration. The coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) were used as model performance indicators. The range of R2 between 0.72-0.99 for water as well as nutrient distribution indicates good correlation between the observed and simulated values. The MAE and RMSE values for water and nutrient distribution were in between 0.0009 to 0.0039 which indicated the accuracy of the model. From these results, it can be concluded that the model is performing well for predicting the P concentration in the soil as well as the soil moisture distribution for onion crop grown under sandy clay loam. The model was also validated for water and phosphorus distribution with the observed values at the end of the crop season and found to be performing well. The HYDRUS-2D model may be used to carry out simulations for different soil types and with different fertigation and irrigation strategies for developing guidelines.

10 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

011325   Satheesh Raja S;Rao V A;Babu R N;Raja A; Abraham R J J;Thamizhannal M (Meat Science and Technology Dep, Madras Veterinary College, TANUVAS, Chennai-600 007, Email: drsatheeshktyke@gmail.com) : Detection of Campylobacter jejuni in chicken meat by polymerase chain reaction. Indian vet J 2017, 94(2), 25-8.

A study was conducted to develop a PCR protocol for detection of Campylobacter jejuni in chicken meat. DNA was extracted by using commercial DNA extraction kit, Phenol Chloroform and boiling method. Samples with OD ratio (260:280) between 1.7 and 1.9 were considered good in terms of concentration and purity and were used for PCR amplification using the genus specific primer was designed by targeting the Hyp gene of C.jejuni. Electrophoresis of amplified PCR products and gel - 365 - documentation revealed 500 bp in 2% Agarose. The PCR technique was standardized using the reference strains and the minimum detection level (sensitivity) by PCR for Campylobacter jejuni was found to be 0.2 ng and it can detect C.jejuni upto 3 x 10⁵ of meat homogenate. Hence, it is one of the rapid screening method for detection of C.jejuni in chicken meat within 24 hours.

3 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

011324   Santha S;Vaithilingam R;Karthikeyan A;Jayaraj T (Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Thanjavur-613 501, Email: santhatnau@gmail.com) : Combining ability analysis and gene action of grain quality traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.) using line x tester analysis. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1236-55.

In rice, twelve lines were crossed with five testers in a line x tester mating design and the resultant 60 hybrids along with their parents were evaluated for their combining ability effects for 15 grain quality traits. The results revealed that the ratio of GCA: SCA variances computed for all the fifteen grain quality traits showed the predominance of non-additive gene action. Among the lines, ADT (R) 47 showed significant desirable gca effects at 1% probability level (p = 0.01) for 11 grain quality traits viz., hulling percentage, milling percentage, head rice recovery percentage, kernel breadth, kernel breadth after cooking, breadth wise expansion ratio, gelatinization temperature, amylose content, gel consistency, water uptake and volume expansion ratio. Among the testers, Pusa 1460 showed significant desirable gca effects at 1% probability level (p = 0.01) for 10 grain quality traits viz., kernel length, kernel breadth, kernel length/breadth ratio, kernel length after cooking, kernel breadth after cooking, linear elongation ratio, gelatinization temperature, amylose content, water uptake and volume expansion ratio and hence they were adjudged as the best combiners for the improvement of the respective traits. Among the hybrids, the hybrids CO 47/Imp., Samba Mahsuri, ADT (R) 47/IRBB 21 and ADT (R) 46/IRBB 21 were identified as best hybrids for exploitation of grain quality traits since they revealed significant sca effects at 1% probability level (p = 0.01) for eight, eight and five grain quality traits, respectively.

5 tables, 31 ref

011323   Sandeep Kumar;Sarabdeep Kour;Gupta M;Kachroo D;Singh H (Agronomy Div, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, Chatha, Jammu-180 009, Email: sksandeepkumarrao@gmail.com) : Influence of rice varieties and fertility levels on performance of rice and soil nutrient status under aerobic conditions. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1164-9.

Scarcity of water resources in India is limiting the production of flooded rice crop. A field experiment was conducted in factorial RBD with sixteen treatment combinations including four rice varieties viz. V1: PR-115, V2: DRRH-3, V3: PAC-837 and V3: PR-121 and four fertility levels viz. F1: control (N0P0K0), F2: N, P₂O₅, K₂O at 90: 45: 22.5 kg ha^-1, F3: N, P₂O₅, K₂O at 120:60:30 kg ha^-1 and F4: N, P₂O₅, K₂O at 150: 75: 37.5 kg ha^-1 replicated thrice. The results revealed that among the different varieties, PAC-837 recorded highest plant height and number of tillers m-2 at all the growth stages. All yield attributes viz. number of effective tillers m-2, number of seeds per panicle, 1000-grain weight, spikelet sterility and grain yield, straw yield and harvest index significantly differed in different varieties and were recorded highest in PAC-837 which were however, statistically at par with DRRH-3 except grain yield and effective tillers m-2. Rice variety PAC-837 recorded highest grain yield of 45.65 q ha^-1 and straw yield of 59.98 q ha^-1. Among the fertility levels, number of effective tillers m-2 significantly increased up to 120: 60: 30 N-P₂O₅-K₂O kg ha^-1 thereafter nonsignificant differences were noticed. The grain and straw yield increased up to 150: 75: 37.5 N-P₂O₅-K₂O kg ha^-1 and recoded grain yield of 52.78 q ha^-1 and straw - 364 - yield of 73.85 q ha^-1 with application of 150:75:37.5 N-P₂O₅-K₂O kg ha^-1. Nutrient application of 150: 75: 37.5 N-P₂O₅-K₂O kg ha^-1 recorded highest available N (238.16 kg ha^-1), P (16.18 kg ha^-1) and K (163.25 kg ha^-1) in soil after harvest of the crop. Higher available nitrogen (235.28 kg ha^-1), phosphorus (16.38 kg ha^-1) and potassium (154.24 kg ha^-1) n soil were recorded with PR-121 and lowest available major nutrients were recorded with variety PAC-837. This study would help to introduction and adaptation of new rice variety PAC-837 with application of 150: 75: 37.5 N-P₂O₅-K₂O kg ha^-1 under aerobic conditions in Shiwalik foothills region of North-Western Himalayas.

5 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

011322   Salim R;Rather A H;Naik H R (Post Harvest Technology Div, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences & Technology Kashmir Shal, Srinagar, J&K 190025, Email: rehana_salim@yahoo.in) : Influence of osmotic pretreatments and drying methods on water activity of dried pear. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(3), 1607-10.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of pretreatments viz glucose, sucrose, glycerol and drying techniques (sun drying and cabinet drying at 50°C and 60°C) on water activity of dried pear slices. The concentration of all the osmotic agents was regular (60%). The impact of drying techniques and pretreatments were found measurably critical (p=0.05). The lowest water activity (aw) was found in cabinet dried pear at 60°C and highest in sun dried pear slices. Samples treated with glycerol reached the lower water activity values than treated with glucose and sucrose.

2 illus, 19 ref

011321   Sahoo S;Dhanapal G N;Goudar P;Sanjay M T;Lal M K (Agronomy Dep, College of Agriculture, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Bangalore-560 065, Email: mailsatyabrata.sahoo@gmail.com) : Yield and weed density of blackgram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) influenced by weed control methods. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 693-7.

The study conducted with pre-emergent herbicides alone and with sequential application of post-emergent herbicides at All India Co-ordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Weed management, - 363 - Gandhi KrishiVignyan Kendra (GKVK), Bangalore in late rabi season of 2013 revealed the predominance of grasses over broad leaved weeds in blackgram. Interculture @ 20 days after sowing (DAS) and hand weeding @ 40 DAS resulted in higher yield (1182 and 5873 kg ha^-1 seed and haulm yield, respectively) and least weed density of 41.33 m-2 during harvest. Uncontrolled weed growth recorded maximum population (70.00 m-2). During initial days pendimethalin 30 EC @ 0.75 kg a.i. ha^-1 and alachlor 50 EC @ 1.0 kg a.i. ha^-1 recorded significantly least weed population of 29.33 m-2at p< 0.05 level of significance. Uncontrolled weed growth resulted in maximum reduction in yield of 65.64 per cent.

5 tables, 13 ref

011320   Sah S B;Gupta R N;Saha T;Singh S P (Entomology Dep, Bhola Paswan Shastri Agricultural College, Purnea, Bihar, Email: tamoghasaha1984@gmail.com) : Monitoring of organochlorine pesticide residues from bovine milk in Patna (Bihar), India. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1012-16.

The milk has high nutritional properties and is widely used as baby food in different forms. The present study was undertaken to evaluate pesticide contamination in bovine milk samples from Patna district of Bihar. Out of 24 samples analyzed during 2012, 18 samples (75%) were found to be contaminated with HCH residues varying from ND-0.178 mg kg-1 (mean value 0.135 mg kg-1). Seven samples (29.2%) had HCH exceeding MRL of 0.01 mg kg-1. DDT residues were detected in 20 samples (83.3%) and ranged from ND-0.132 mg kg-1 (mean value 0.122 mg kg-1). Five samples (20.8%) contained DDT residues above the prescribed MRL of 0.05 mg kg-1. Out of 24 samples of bovine milk analyzed during 2013, 16 samples (66.7%) were found to be contaminated with HCH and 15 samples (62.5%) with DDT residues. The residues of HCH varied from ND-0.154 mg kg-1 (mean value 0.053 mg kg-1) and DDT from ND-0.120 mg kg-1 (mean value 0.122 mg kg-1). The residues of HCH and DDT were above MRL in four samples (16.7%) and three samples (12.5%) respectively. The management practices of animals and legal punishment on using banned pesticides are the alternatives to reduce pesticide contamination incidences in milk.

4 tables, 13 ref

011319   Rohtas;Rakesh;Saharan H S;Rathi A S (Plant Pathology Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: punia.rakesh98@gmail.com) : Management of collar rot of groundnut with bio-agent, botanicals and chemicals. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(3), 1657-63.

Efficacy of pesticides was tested in vitro for the per cent mycelial growth inhibition of A. niger. Propiconazole, carbendazim and carboxin completely inhibited the mycelial growth up to 100 per cent at 200, 500 and 1000 ppm concentration, respectively as comparable with 86.94, 88.05 and 59.96 per cent at their respective 100, 200 and 500 ppm. Captan and thiram were found very less effective as they inhibited 81.11 and 72.77 per cent of fungal growth, respectively at higher concentration of 1000 ppm. Fungicide hexaconazole, herbicide pendimethalin and insecticide chlorpyriphos failed to show antifungal activity against A. niger even at 1000 ppm concentration. Three bio-agents viz., Trichoderma viride, T. harzianum and Pseudomonas fluroscence were tested for their inhibition of mycelial growth of A. niger in vitro. T. viride inhibited the mycelial growth up to 78.32 per cent followed by T. harzianum (72.50%), while the bacterial agent P. fluroscence only managed to inhibit 23.80 per cent of mycelial growth. Seed treatments with fungicides and soil inoculation with bio-agents significantly reduced the disease incidence. Among the botanicals, neem cake powder @ 20g/kg soil significantly controlled the disease up to 32.53 per cent.

4 tables, 18 ref

011318   Rohila A K;Yadav K;Ghanghas B S (Extension Education Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: rohillaextension@gmail.com) : Role of information and communication technology (ICT) in agriculture and extension. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1097-1100.

Information and communication technology (ICT) aids provide up-to-date information on the market prices of commodities, inputs and consumer trends which ultimately can improve a farmer's negotiating position and their livelihood. Major aspect of ICT is that accurate information should reach the farmers at the right time to make more sustainable use of on-farm resources. Now the question arises that how this information can be disseminated to such a diverse group of the farming community. ICT is going to play greater role in agricultural extension as well as private sector agribusiness, market information and market intelligence. Here this paper review the role of ICT not only in providing greater awareness and knowledge in agriculture technology and information but also in terms of farmer's attitudes towards trying to adopt new technologies.

17 ref

011317   Ray S;Dash S K;Dhal S K;Nayak G D;Parida A K (Animal Breeding and Genetics Dep, Orissa Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Bhubaneswar-751 003, Email: susantdash46@gmail.com) : Genetic studies on reproductive performance of indigenous goats in northern Odisha. Explor Anim med Res 2016, 6(2), 192-8.

Data on the reproductive parameters of 622 does, sired by 28 bucks, born during the period of 3 years from 2012 to 2015 in 28 villages of three districts viz. Deogarh, Keonjhar and Balasore of Odisha, India were included in the present study. It was observed in the present study that these goats in north Odisha attain sexual maturity at 249.15±1.01 days weighing 9.47±0.53 kg and drop the first kid at an average age of 410.72±1.17 days weighing 13.52±0.62 kg. Season of birth had no significant effect on any of the reproduction traits. The heritability estimates of age at sexual maturity, weight at sexual maturity, age at first kidding, weight at sexual maturity and kidding interval were found to be 0.18 ± 0.08, 0.34 ± 0.11, 0.26 ± 0.19, 0.31 ± 0.07, 0.36 ± 0.12, respectively. Except kidding interval all other reproductive traits of economic importance showed moderate to high and positive genetic and phenotypic correlations ranging from 0.17±0.16 to 0.84 ± 0.12.

2 tables, 21 ref

011316   Ranjeet Kumar;Singh M (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, BAU, Sabour-813 210, Bhagalpur, Bihar, Email: mahendra_saini_soil@yahoo.com) : Effect of mycorrhizal (AM) fungi inoculation on enzymatic activity and zinc uptake under direct seeded rice system. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1157-63.

The application of treatment T3 (Glomus mosseae + 100% RDF NK) produced significantly more root volume by 72.60%, 17.80%, 12.25%, 14.13% over the application of treatment T₁ (Control), treatment T₅ (Glomus coronatum+ 100% RDF NK), T₆ (Gigasporadecipein + 100% RDF NK) and T₇ (BAU AM-1 (Glomus sp + 100% RDF NK), respectively. Similar trend shows at harvesting stage, here the maximum root volume (23 c.c) was recorded by the application of T₃ (Glomus mosseae + 100% RDF NK). Maximum AM colonization and spore count was observed at panicle initiation stage with the application of treatment T₃ (Glomus mosseae + 100% RDF NK). This treatment also gave maximum dehydrogenase activity (55.86 æg TPF g^-1 24 hr^-1), acid phosphatase activity (0.299 mg PNP g^-1 hr^-1) and alkaline phosphatase activity (0.54 mg PNP g^-1 hr^-1) at panicle initiation stage. Application of treatment T₃ (Glomus mosseae + 100% RDF NK) significantly increased DTPA extractable Zn in soil and Zn content in plant when compared - 361 - with all the treatments except treatment T₆ (Gigasporadecipien+ 100% RDF NK). The maximum zinc uptake (0.056 mg pot-1) by grain was recorded under treatment T₃ (Glomus mosseae + 100% RDF NK) followed by application of treatment T₆ (Gigasporadecipien + 100% N and K). Highest grain yield (14.08 g pot-1) was found with the treatment T₃ (Glomus mosseae + 100% RDF NK). As evident from the results, the AM fungal inoculation can effectively modify the soil microbe population and community structure by increasing the soil enzymatic activities and significantly increased the zinc uptake by grain in direct seeded rice (DSR).

4 illus, 2 tables, 39 ref

011315   Ramandeep Kaur;Chahal K K;Dhillon N K; Bhardwaj U (Chemistry Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: drkkchahal@pau.edu) : Potential of Inula racemosa root extract and its fractions to suppress root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1090-6.

Nematicidal potential of chloroform root extract of Inula racemosa and its fractions was investigated on egg hatching and mortality of root knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita. Egg masses and second stage juveniles (J2) of M. incognita were exposed to different concentrations (0.1-8.0 mg ml-1) of I. racemosa root extract and its fractions. Observations on egg hatch were recorded on 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th and 9th day and those of mortality studies were recorded on 2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th and 10th day, respectively. Significant mortality as well as egg hatch inhibition was observed for all the tested components at 5%. The root extract was found to be most effective in controlling egg hatching as complete inhibition was observed at 8.0 mg ml-1 concentration on 1stday of treatment and nonpolar fraction was most effective in causing mortality of J2 of M. incognita as 100% inhibition was observed at 6.0 and 8.0 mg ml-1 concentration on 2nd day of treatment. Maximum inhibition of egg hatching was observed for root extract at 8.0 mg ml-1 concentration and 100% mortality was observed for root extract as well as nonpolar fraction at the same concentration. The nonpolar fraction was most effective in causing mortality as maximum mortality was observed at 6.0 and 8.0 mg ml-1 concentration throughout the exposure time. Polar fraction was least effective among all the components both in egg hatch inhibition and J2 mortality of M. incognita. Both the activities showed concentrations as well as time dependence. Results show different role of tested components on egg hatching and mortality of root knot nematode. The root extract of I. racemosa and its fractions showed a potential to develop new nematicide.

4 illus, 2 tables, 43 ref

011314   Rajput R D;Patil R P (P.G. Dep of Botany, Deogiri College, Aurangabad-431 005) : Spectrophotometric analysis of chlorophylls and carotenoids from some cultivated fodder crops. Bioinfolet 2017, 14(2), 215-16.

Present investigation was undertaken on extraction of chlorophylls and carotenoids from the foliages of cultivated fodder crops by using 80% Acetone as extracting agent. The study compares - 360 - the amounts of chlorophyll and carotenoids in leguminous and non-legume fodders crops.

1 table, 6 ref

011313   Rajkumar;Gora J S;Ramesh Kumar;Singh A; Ashwani Kumar;Gajender (NO, ICAR-Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal-132 001, Email: rajhorticulture@gmail.com) : Effect of different growing media on the rooting of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. 'Phule arakta' cuttings. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 715-9.

To identify the most efficient growing medium for root and shoot development in stem cuttings of pomegranate cv. `Phulearakta' under arid conditions, a greenhouse experiment was conducted in randomized complete block design with three replications during 2014-15 at ICAR-CIAH, Bikaner. About 15-20 cm long hard wood cuttings, 0.5-1.0 cm diameter and having three to four buds were separated from the healthy trees and planted in mid-January. Detached cuttings were treated with 2500 ppm of IBA (3- Indole butyric acid) using quick dip technique (for 5 seconds) and planted in five rooting substrates i.e.sand, vermiculite, perlite, cocopeat and garden soil (control) alone and in combination at 1:1 (v/v). The response of perlite + vermiculite medium was best in terms of rooting (82.33 per cent), number of roots (32.67 per cutting), fresh and dry weight of roots (0.61 mg and 2.08 mg), shoots per cutting (80.33) and survival (76.0 per cent) than the other medium used. Vermiculite + Coco peat 1:1 (v/v) combination also resulted in rooting in more than 80 per cent of cuttings whereas cuttings raised in garden soil and sand showed very low rooting. Based on the findings, it appears that Perlite + vermiculite 1:1 (v/v) and vermiculite + cocopeat may be appropriate alternatives to the conventially used substrate, i.e., garden soil for the better rooting and establishment of pomegranate cultivar 'PhuleArakta' cuttings.

1 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

011312   Rajesh Kumar;Biswas S;Singh V;Ram M; Kalimuddin M (Livestock Product Technology Dep, , R.V.C. Kanke-834 006, Email: lucky.26mailme@gmail.com) : Comparison of physico-chemical and sensory quality of sausages prepared from spent - 359 - duck and hen meat. Explor Anim med Res 2016, 6(1), 89-93.

A study was conducted to assess the comparative quality of sausages prepared from different combination of spent duck and spent hen meats in terms of physico-chemical and sensory attributes. Sausages from 75% spent duck and 25% spent hen (T₁), 50% spent duck and 50% spent hen (T₂) and 25% spent duck and 75% spent hen (T₃) meats were prepared by standard methods. The quality parameter studies included pH, thiobarbituric acid (TBA), tyrosine value (TV), moisture (%), protein (%), fat (%) and sensory attributes. Results revealed that pH, TV, and protein showed insignificant differences between the treatments whereas TBA, moisture and fat varied significantly (p<60>0.05). Among the sensory attributes colour, flavour, juiciness, texture, tenderness and overall palatability showed significantly (p<60>0.05) higher scores except appearance for sausages made from a T₃ combination of meat. From the study, it was concluded that the overall quality of sausages prepared from the highest ratio of spent hen meat was the best followed by other combinations of meat sausages i.e. (T₃ <62> T₂ <62> T₁).

3 tables, 16 ref

011311   Rajesh Kumar;Biswas S;Singh V;Ram M (Livestock Products Technology Dep, Ranchi Veterinary College, Kanke-06, Email: lucky.26mailme@gmail.com) : Assessment of microbial load of sausages prepared from different combination of spent duck and spent hen meat. Explor Anim med Res 2016, 6(2), 205-11.

Aim of the present study was to assess the microbial load of sausages prepared from different combination of spent duck and spent hen meat. The combination are 100% spent duck (T1), 75%+ 25% spent duck and spent hen (T2), 50%+50% spent duck and spent hen (T3), 25%+75% spent duck and spent hen (T4) and 100% spent hen (T5). All the samples of different combination were subjected to total plate count (TPC), total psychrophilic count (TPSC) and total Coliform count (TCC). Mean of TPC for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 were 4.69, 4.62, 4.60, 4.49 and 4.46 log 10 CFU/gm respectively, while mean TPSC were 4.46, 4.46, 4.43, 4.36 and 4.36 log CFU/gm respectively There were no significant (p<60>0.05) difference between the different group of combination of sausages for TPS as well as TPSC but varies significantly (p<60>0.05) from 14th day of storage in both cases. The coliform group of bacteria will not be detected in any combination of sausages. It is concluded that microbial load of sausage prepared from spent duck is high and it is decreases as the percentage of duck meat decreases but, the upper limit of bacteria in each group of sausages is within limit and hence it is safe for human consumption.

4 tables, 21 ref

011310   Rajendran K;Mani K;Shamsudeen P;Ramesh Saravana Kumar V;Natarajan A (Poultry Science Dep, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal-637 002, Email: poultryrajendran@yahoo.com) : Influence of different levels of lysine and methionine on body weight and body weight gain of broilers in environmentally controlled housing system. Indian vet J 2017, 94(2), 34-6.

An experiment was conducted by feeding diets with different levels of lysine (1.20, 1.30 and 1.40 % in pre-starter diet, 1.10, 1.20 and 1.30 % in starter diet and 0.95, 1.05 and 1.15 % in finisher diet) and methionine (0.45, 0.55 and 0.65% in pre-starter diet, 0.40,, 0.50 and 0.60% % in starter diet and 0.35, 0.45 and 0.55% % in finisher diet) to commercial broilers for a period of five weeks to assess the production performance. The result of the experiment revealed that group T₁ viz. lysine 1.20, 1.10 and 0.95 % and methionine 0.45, 0.40 and 0.35 % in the pre-starter, starter and finisher diets respectively had numerically higher body weight and body weight gain than rest of the treatment groups at 5th week of age.

1 table, 12 ref

011309   Raj A;Mallick R B (Agronomy Dep, Univ College of Agriculture, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019, Email: amritagnm@rediffmail.com) : Effect of nitrogen and foliar spray of potassium nitrate and calcium nitrate on growth and productivity of yellow sarson (Brassica campestris L. var yellow sarson) crop under irrigated condition. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 888-92.

A field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2007-'08 and 2008-'09 to study the effect of calcium nitrate {Ca (NO3)2} and potassium nitrate {KNO3} at 50% flowering stage and soil applied nitrogen {N: (0, 40 and 80kg N/ha)} on growth, productivity and economics ofyellow sarson at farmers field under irrigated old alluvial soil of West Bengal. Highest leaf area index (LAI) values at 40 days of crop age (1.748 and 1.592), dry matter accumulation (1404.3 and 1288.8 gm-2) at 80 days and crop growth rate (C.G.R) (27.87 and 25.68 g m-2 day-1) in between 40 to 60 days were obtained at Nitrogen application at the rate of 80 kg / ha and mixed spray of 0.203% Ca (NO3)2 + 0.25% KNO3 respectively. Soil application of 80 kg N/ ha along with foliar spray of 0.203% Ca - 358 - (NO3)2 + 0.25% KNO3 resulted increase in seed yield (1.68 t ha^-1) by 12% over 80 kg N/ ha with only water spray (1.5 t ha^-1). Foliar spray of 0.203% Ca (NO3)2 + 0.25% KNO3 improved the yield components and seed yield over their sole application. Application of 80 kg N/ha along with 0.203% Ca (NO3)2 + 0.25% KNO3 at 50% flowering stage was found to be the most effective in increasing yellow sarson production in old alluvial soil.

3 tables, 16 ref

011308   Raghu B N;Gowda B;Vasudevan S N;Macha S I; Hiregoudar S G;Hosmani A K (Seed Science and Technology Dep, College of Agriculture, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur-584 104, Email: raghubn123@gmail.com) : Effect of nano based seed treatment insecticides on seed quality in pigeonpea. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1226-35.

A laboratory experiment was conducted to know the effect seed treatment with nano insecticides on seed quality of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) cv. TS3R. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of macro and nano insecticides on seed germination and vigour of Pigeonpea. Different recommended seed treatment insecticides viz, malathion, fenvalerate, emamectine benzoate, thiodicarb, sweet flag and neem seed kernel powder insecticides were synthesized to nano form using high energy planetary ball mill. The Pigeonpea seed were treated with different nano insecticides i.e., 10-90 per cent reduction in actual dosage. Among the different treatments studied, seed treated with nano malathion 50 per cent lesser than normal dosage, fenvalerate 60 per cent lesser, thiodicarb 10 per cent lesser, emamectine benzoate 30 per cent lesser, sweetflag 70 per cent lesser, neem seed kernel powder 40 per cent lesser than actual recommended dosage gave significantly higher seed germination (98.0, 98.67, 98.67, 97.0, 99.0 and 98.67 percent), less number of abnormal seedlings (1.0, 0.33, 1.0, 1.0, 1.0 and 0.33 per cent), shoot length (10.13, 9.00, 11.47, 9.50, 10.90 and 10.87 cm), root length (12.56, 12.93, 12.83, 12.60 11.50 and 13.00 cm), seedling dry weight (85.73, 87.40, 88.47, 87.70, 88.60 and 88.27 g) and seedling vigour index (2223, 2164, 2397, 2143, 2217 and 2354) as compared to untreated seeds and macro insecticides. Therefore, it is very clear that nano based insecticides has a significant (0.1%) impact on the seed quality improvement.

6 tables, 23 ref

011307   Priyanka K;Jaiswal H K (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: kpriyanka.choudhary@gmail.com) : Effect of cold stress on boro rice seedlings. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1036-41.

Cold stress at seedling stage is a major constraint in boro rice production. Nine boro rice lines were crossed in diallel fashion excluding reciprocals to obtain 36 crosses. All the 36 crosses along with parents were grown in nursery in three seasons (boro-2014, kharif-2015 and boro-2015). Performance of seedlings for survival per cent, chlorophyll content, relative water content, membrane stability index was recorded just before transplanting in all the three seasons. Scoring for cold tolerance was done in both boro seasons. Gautam showed highest survival rate - 357 - over three seasons. Among crosses, IR 64 x Krishna Hamsa showed highest survival (84%) in boro-2014, MTU 1010 x Jaya (86.33%) in boro-2015 and MTU 1010 x Krishna Hamsa (95.67%) in kharif-2015. Jaya x Krishna Hamsa was most cold tolerant cross over both boro seasons. Significant positive correlation was observed among survival per cent, chlorophyll content, relative water content and membrane stability index over seasons.

4 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

011306   Praveen Kumar K;Bramhaiah K V;Naidu G V; Ekambaram B;Hari Krishna N V V (NO, NTR college of Veterinary Science, Gannavaram, Andhra Pradesh-521 101, Email: praveen.bvsc2@gmail.com) : Serum progestrone profiles in Nellore Jodpi ewes synchronized by different doses of prostaglandin F_2α. Indian vet J 2017, 94(2), 44-5.

Serum progesterone concentrations in Nellore Jodipi ewes synchronized with two different doses of double PGF2a (Cloprostenol sodium) @ either 125 or 250 μg with 9 d interval in Group I and Group II ewes were evaluated.

1 table, 10 ref

011305   Pinjari S S;Chavan S A;Meshram N A (Agronomy Dep, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli, Maharastra-415 712) : Effect of polythene mulch, growth stimulants and fertilization on yield of sweet corn. Bioinfolet 2017, 14(2), 119-21.

The field experiment undertaken at Agronomy Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Dapoli, (MS) revealed that the cob, biological and, green fodder yields were significantly higher under the influence of 75% RDN + 25% N through poultry manure (PM), polythene mulch and growth stimulants.

2 table, 7 ref

011304   Pawar P S;Khade K R;Bhite B R (Horticulture Dep, All India Coordinated Research Project on Fruits, Mahatma Phule Krishi, Rahuri-413 722) : Effect of micronutrients on growth, yield and quality of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis Osbeck) CV. mosambi. Bioinfolet 2017, 14(2), 202-4.

Application of RDF + soil application of ZnSO₄ 100 g + FeSO₄ 100 g + MgSO₄ 100 g/tree + Foliar spray of Grade-II multimicronutrients recorded maximum number of fruits per tree (379.33), average fruit weight (189.33 g), yield (71.89 kg/tree and 19.91 t/ha), life of fruit on tree (35.33 days) with minimum harvesting period (16.67 days) and minimum degree days required from fruit set to harvesting (300.81 degree days), juice (46.91%), TSS (11.18°B), ascorbic acid (55.31 mg/100 ml juice) with minimum acidity (0.52%).However, the treatment T4, i. e. application of RDF + soil application of ZnSO₄ 100 g + FeSO₄ 100 g + MgSO₄ 100 g/tree recorded maximum reducing sugars (4.82%), total sugars (7.92%), sugar: acid ratio (14.94) and chlorophyll content (81.37%) in Ambiabahar of sweet orange.

2 table, 13 ref

011303   Pawar P S;Bulbule S V;Dalal N R (Horticulture Dep, All India Coordinated Research Project on Fruits, Mahatma Phule Krishi, Rahuri-413 722) : Identification of critical stage of water requirement in sweet orange (Citrus sinensis Osbeck). Bioinfolet 2017, 14(2), 205-8.

A field experiment on identification of critical stage of water requirement in sweet orange (Citrus sinensis Osbeck cv. Mosambi) under Western Maharashtra was undertaken during 2011-12 to 2015-16. The results obtained indicated that the effect of different levels of irrigation at different stages on growth significantly altered yield and quality of sweet orange. The maximum plant height (4.88 m), canopy volume (46.52 m³), average fruit weight (198.27 g), number of fruits (342.57 fruits/tree) and fruit yield (67.64 kg/tree and 18.75 t/ha) were recorded in the treatment T7 i. e. irrigation at 80% ER at all the growth stages. Similarly significantly the maximum juice content (45.75%), TSS (9.67°B), ascorbic acid (61.28 mg/100 ml juice), reducing sugars (3.73%), non-reducing sugars (2.61%) and total sugars (6.29%) with minimum acidity (0.52%) were recorded in this treatment. It was concluded that for higher production of good quality fruits of sweet orange during Ambia bahar, irrigation at 80% ER at all the growth stages is required. It is further recommended that, March-April is the critical stage of irrigation.

5 table, 9 ref

011302   Paul S;Nimit Kumar;Chopra P (Crop Improvement Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Palampur-176 062, Email: nk.kakran@gmail.com) : Genetic variation and characterization of different linseed genotypes (Linum usitatissimum L.) for agro-morphological traits. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 754-62.

Forty five linseed genotypes (local collection) were subjected to study the genetic variability at the Experimental Farm of the Department of Crop Improvement, CSK Himachal Pradesh KrishiVishvavidyalaya, Palampur, during rabi 2015-2016. Analysis of variance revealed that the differences among all the genotypes were significant for all the traits. Mean performance of genotype KLSA-15 for seed yield recorded highest contribution of 3.69 grams. The PCV values were greater than the GCV values for all the traits studied indicating that the apparent variation is not only due to genotypes but, also due to the influence of environment. The highest PCV (64.17) and GCV (64.09) were found for biological yield per plant. Higher estimates of PCV and GCV were obtained for primary branches per plant, secondary branches per plant, capsules per plant, biological yield per plant, harvest index (45.94 and 44.60) and seed yield per plant (52.39 and 50.94). All the characters studied in the present investigation expressed high heritability estimates ranging from 62.95 to 99.77 percent for technical height and biological yield per plant respectively. It was revealed that most of the traits under study showed low genetic advance, high heritability (94.23) and high genetic advance (31.06) was recorded for harvest index indicating predominance of additive gene action for this character. Simple selection based on phenotypic performance of this character would be more effective. The cluster analysis showed that the genotypes were placed into four clusters, showing inter-cluster divergence, which is important for future hybridization programme.

2 illus, 5 tables, 29 ref

011301   Patokar M J;Chopde N;Raut V U;Bhute P N (Horticulture Section, College of Agriculture, Amravati Road, Nagpur-440 010) : Studies on flower production in marigold in responce to iron and zinc. Bioinfolet 2017, 14(2), 169-71.

A field experiment was conducted to study the flower production of marigold 'F₁ Hybrid Orange' in response to iron and zinc during rabi season of the year 2016-17 at Horticulture Section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur. There were seven treatments arranged in Randomized Block Design with three replications. Foliar application of 0.5% zinc followed by 0.5% iron recorded earliest first flower bud initiation and 50 per cent flowering, along with significantly maximum vegetative growth, plant height, number of flowers plant^-1, flower yield ha^-1 flower diameter, weight of flower and longevity of intact flower.

2 table, 6 ref

011300   Patel R K;Tomar G S;Dwivedi S K (RAEO, Agriculture Dep, Government of Chhattisgarh, Chhattisgarh, Email: micropatelraj@gmail.com) : Effect of irrigation schrduling and nitrogen levels on growth, yield and water productivity of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) under vertisols. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 698-705.

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi season of 2015-16 at the Instructional cum Research Farm, IGKV, Raipur to study the effect of different irrigation scheduling and nitrogen levels on growth, yield attributes, yield, water and nitrogen productivity of linseed (Linum usitatissimumL.). The experiment was laid out in split plot design keeping four irrigation schedules viz., come-up (I1), one (I2), two (I3) and three irrigation (I4) in main plots and four levels of nitrogen viz., control (N0), 30 kg (N1), 60 kg (N2) and 90 kg N ha^-1 (N3) in sub plots with three replications. Results revealed that highest seed yield was obtained with linseed provided two irrigations (1683 kg ha^-1) and application of 90 kg N ha^-1 (1604 kg ha^-1). Moreover, crop supplied with two irrigations in combination with 90 kg N ha^-1 (I3xN3) gave significantly (P=0.05) highest seed yield (2097 kg ha^-1) compared to rest of the treatment combinations. The excessive use of irrigation and fertilizers also affects farmer's economy, as the crop is relatively low yielder. Two irrigations are better than three irrigations in terms of seed yield and water productivity; and application of 60 kg N is better than 90 kg N ha^-1 in view of nitrogen productivity. The WP and IWP were decreasing as increasing the number of irrigation, but increasing with increasing the levels of nitrogen, while NP was highest with two irrigations (11.09 kg, kg-1 N) and application of 60 kg N ha^-1 (8.90 kg, kg-1 N).

3 illus, 5 tables, 15 ref

011299   Patel R;Dwivedi S K;Patel R K (Agronomy Dep, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, Email: raazpatel24@gmail.com) : Effect of agro-input management practices on yield of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) under vertisols of Chhattisgarh, India. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1072-6.

A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of agro-input management practices on yield of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) at the Instructional cum Research Farm, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, (C.G.) during Rabi 2015-16. Different agro input management practices had significant (P=0.05) effect on growth, yield attributes and yield of linseed. However, seed rates did not give significant influence on seed yield. Whereas, application of RDF + FYM placement in rows @ 5 t ha^-1 (N3) recorded significantly (P=0.05) higher growth parameters viz. plant height (88.44 cm), primary branches plant-1 (3.83), secondary branches plant-1 (23.39), dry matter accumulation (6.76 g plant-1) and yield attributes viz. capsules plant-1 (30.86), seeds capsule-1(7.63), seeds plant-1 (235.32), seed yield (2100 kg ha^-1) and stover yield (4885 kg ha^-1). In case of foliar spray, application of 2% urea at 15, 40, 65 and 90 DAS (F3) gave - 354 - significantly higher growth parameters viz. plant height (88.37 cm), primary branches plant-1(3.82), secondary branches plant-1 (23.68), dry matter accumulation (6.59 g plant-1) and yield attributes viz. capsules plant-1(31.74), seeds capsule-1(7.63), seeds plant-1 (241.38), seed yield (2089 kg ha^-1) and stover yield (4772 kg ha^-1). Interaction among seed rate 30 kg ha^-1 (S2) X RDF 60:30:30 N: P: K kg ha^-1 (N1) with foliar application of 2% urea at 15, 40, 65 and 90 DAS (F3) (S2 XN1X F3) recorded the highest benefit-cost ratio (4.39). Line placement of FYM was better than broadcasting in terms of seed yield; and foliar application of urea was economical than Nitrobenzene.

2 illus, 4 tables, 10 ref

011298   Patel J B;Babariya C A;Sondarva J;Ribadiya K H;Bhatiya V J (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh-362 001, Email: jbpatelvasai38@gmail.com) : Effect of storage conditions, packing materials and seed treatments on viability and seedling vigour of onion (Allium cepa l.) seeds. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1054-67.

The present investigation was carried out from July 2013 to July 2015, wherein 100 g of fresh quality seed of onion cv. GWO 1 was having high germination percentage and moisture content below 8 per cent. The treatment consisted of two storage conditions (C) viz., C1 (Ambient temperature) and C2 (Cold storage at 70C + 20C); two packing materials (P) viz., P1 = Cloth Bag and P2 = Polythene Bag (500 gauge = 125 æ), and five seed treatments (S) viz., S1 = Control, S2 = Carbendazim @ 2g/kg seed, S3 = Mancozeb @ 2g/kg seed, S4 = Thirum @ 3g/kg seed, and S5 = Neem leaf powder @ 10g / kg seed. After proper mixing or smearing the seeds as per the treatments, seeds were packed and stored as per treatments. Observations were recorded at 90 days interval on viability and vigour parameters. The results revealed that seed stored under cold storage (7ñ2 øC) and in polyethylene bags (500 gauge) noted significantly higher values for all the characters even after two years of storage. All the treatment combinations of seed stored under cold storage gave more than 70 per cent germination (As per ISTA standard) even after two years of storage, of which, seed treated with thirum @ 3g/kg seed was the best treatment. Therefore, it can be concluded that seed of onion can be stored up to two year in cold storage packed in polyethylene bag without or with seed treatment without deterioration in germination and seedling vigour.

7 tables, 22 ref

011297   Panda R;Ghorpade P P;Chopade S S;Kodape A H; Siddiqui M B A;Palampalle H Y;Dagli N R (Livestock Production Management Dep, Bombay Veterinary College, Mumbai-400 065, Email: rameswar.panda8@gmail.com) : Effect of floor space on serum cortisol level of Osmanabadi kids in Mumbai region of India. Explor Anim med Res 2016, 6(2), 217-23.

This experiment was conducted to find out the effect of different floor space allowance on serum cortisol level of Osmanabadi kids. For this study, eighteen Osmanabadi kids between the age group of 3-4 months were randomly selected irrespective of sex. The selected kids were divided and kept into three different groups with different floor space comprising of 6 kids in each group. Group T0 (0.8 m² floor space/kid), Group T1 (0.7 m²/kid) and Group T2 (0.6 m² /kid). The feeding and other management practices for all the three groups were similar. The blood sample was collected from - 353 - each goat in fifteen days interval and the serum cortisol concentration (nM/l) was determined with the help of Radio Immuno Assay (RIA) kit. The average serum cortisol concentration were 12.66 ± 3.08, 10.85 ± 3.51 and 15.18 ± 3.88 nM/l in Group T0, T1 and T2 kids respectively. There was no significant effect (P<60>0.05) of floor space on cortisol concentration as a stress indicator in Osmanabadi kids.

1 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

011296   Panda A;Senapati A K;Dhal A;Panda K K;Swain S K (Plant Pathology Dep, Orissa Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar-751 003, Email: akshayasenapati@yahoo.co.in) : Identification of resistant lines of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) against leaf spot and rust diseases for coastal plains of Odisha. J mycopathol Res 2017, 55(2), 215-16.

Major foliar fungal diseases of groundnut such as Early leaf spot (ELS) caused by Cercospora arachidicola Hori., Late Leaf spot (LLS) caused by Phaeoisariopsis personata Berk. & Curt., v Arx. and Rust caused by Puccinia arachidis Speg. act as the major constraints in groundnut growing tracts and can account for a loss in yield up to 70%. Management of these diseases involve a huge amount of chemical fungicides which in turn increases the cost of cultivation. In this context the present study was carried out with screening of 115 varieties of groundnut at central farm of Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar in rabi season during the year 2015-16 to identify the suitable germ lines for coastal plains of Odisha. Out of 115 varieties screened 106 were reported to be resistant against ELS and 99 and 12 varieties against LLS and rust respectively.

^ssc1 table, 2 ref

011295   Palande A;Deokar C D;Gaykawd R T;Mali M D (AICRP on Medicinal, Aromatic plants and Betelvine, Plant Pathology &, MPKV., Rahuri-413 722) : Effect of organic manures and biofertilizer on growth and yield Asparagus (Asparagus racemosus). Bioinfolet 2017, 14(2), 172-4.

Maximum plant height (177.20 cm), number of branches/plant (19.5), root length (24.8 cm), fresh root yield (206.10 q/ha) and dry root yield (41.22 q/ha) were recorded when FYM (5 tons/ha) + Vermicompost (2 tons/ha) + PSB (5 kg/ha) was applied. Harvesting at 18 months after transplantation resulted in maximum yield.

3 table, 3 ref

011294   Olambe S A;Jadho A N;Jadho S N;Maske S N; Pimpalpalle L V (Horticulture Dep, Vasntrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani) : Comparative studies of nucellar, sathgudi and local sweet orange (Citrus sinensis Osbeck). Bioinfolet 2017, 14(2), 175-6.

1 table, 6 ref

011293   Nooralvandi T;Habibi D;Taleghani D F;Kashani A;Paknejad F (Agronomy and Plant Breeding Dep, Islamic Azad Univ, Karaj Branch, Alborz, Iran) : Evaluation of nitrogen levels and methanol spraying on the yield, yield components and catalase activities of sugar beet in Karaj and Moghan region. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(3), 1435-47.

One of the main problems about cultivation of sugar beet in Moghan region is the growth of aerial organ, while in Karaj the problems is reduction of sugar cutie and yield that are due to high temperature of harvest time and water stress. Present paper was carried out for 1 year using strip split block experiment in the form of complete accidental blocks with 4 times repetition in 2 different regions; irrigation was done in tape form. Experimental factors included 4 levels of N: non-application, 13, 19 and 25 mg/kg and 4 different varieties of sugar beet were experimented: Pars, Ekbatan, Razor and Flores; and the third factor was methanol spraying in 3 levels: non-application, 10 and 20% by volume. In Karaj region, the most yield achieved due to interaction effect of Razor*non application of methanol (78043 kg/hectare). In Moghan region, the most root yield achieved due to Pars var.* 20% by volume of methanol (92286 kg/hectare) that was classified in the same statistical group with Flores* 10% and 20% by volume of methanol and Pars var.* 10% by volume of methanol (91296, 85725 and 87543 kg/hectare in order). The result of compound analysis indicated that the main effects of region, N, variety and methanol had significant effect on catalase activity amount in 1% level as well as interaction effects of N* variety, N* methanol, variety* methanol and N* variety* methanol. According to the results of experiment in two regions, selection of proper variety can be the most crucial factor beside application of - 352 - balanced level of methanol and management of N fertilizer at optimum level in order to improve the yield.

13 illus, 6 tables, 54 ref

011292   Neeru;Thakral N K;Avtar R;Kesh H (Oil seed section Dep of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: nsmanumuskan22@gmail.com) : Characterization and categorization of Indian mustard genotypes for agro-morphological traits. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 805-11.

A total of sixty genotypes and germplasm lines were evaluated and characterized for 14 quantitative and 8 qualitative traits in Brassica juncea. Observations were recorded on the basis of scores given in the DUS descriptor. Majority of accessions were very late in maturity and medium in flowering. No variability was observed for leaf length and leaf width. On the basis of branches, most of the genotypes were classified under intermediate category. Long main shoot length (31), medium number of siliquae on main shoot (46), medium density on main shoot (52), short siliqua length (51), very tall plant height (38), few numbers of seeds per siliqua (33), medium 1000-seed weight (38), medium seed yield per plant (32) and low oil content (40) were observed in most of the genotypes. For qualitative traits, most of the genotype showed dark green leaf color, sparse hairs, dentation of leaf margin lyrate type, open leaf growth habit, yellow petal color, semi-appressedsiliqua angle with main shoot and intermediate siliqua surface texture. Wide (Yellow, Dull grey, Reddish brown, Brown and Black) diversity has been observed for seed color.

1 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

011291   Nazir N;Wani S A;Nyrah Q;Farooq S;Hassan M N; Kashoo Z A (Veterinary Microbiology and Immunology Div, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir Un, Kashmir Shuhama Campus, Srinagar-190 006, Email: nazimanazir11@gmail.com) : Virulence gene profile and antimicrobial resistance of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from bovine mastitis in Kashmir, India. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 893-8.

The Staphylococcus aureusis often responsible for a number of diseases in humans and animals, and it is considered as a main etiological agent of bovine mastitis. The pathogenicity of S. aureus is due to both its ability to resist antibiotics, and the production of toxins. This study investigated virulence genes, prevalence and antibiogram profile of S. aureus isolated from dairy cows suffering from mastitis in the Kashmir. A total of 70 S. aureus isolates were obtained from 250 mastitic milk samples collected from both organized (47/150) and unorganized (23/100) dairy farms. Five pathogenic factors including clfA, hld, seo, lukM, and coa and one resistance gene mecAgene were checked through PCR. Clumping factor gene (clfA) was found in most of the isolates with a percentage of 81.42% whereas,hld, seo, lukM, and coa were present in 61.2, 54.28, 70, and 71 percent of isolates, respectively. However, amplification of coagene yielded DNA bands of two different sizes. A high percentage of antimicrobial resistance rates were observed, wherein, Ampicillin showed highest resistance with 85.7%, followed by Kanamycin, Cefotaxime, Sulphadizine and Streptomicin showing 71.42%, 54.28%, 51.48% and 42%, respectively. A high frequency of Methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA 28.57%) was observed in these isolates and all methicillin resistant isolates were found to be positive for mecA gene via PCR amplification. These results revealed that mastitis-associated S. - 351 - aureus among bovines of Kashmir is able to accumulate different virulence factors and resistance to antimicrobials, making the treatment of infections difficult.

6 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

011290   Nayak S;Mukherjee A;Samanta S (Odisha Biodiversity Board, Regional Plant Resource Centre Campus, Bhubaneswar-751 015, Email: shubransu.crri@gmail.com) : Endophytic microorganisms of tropical tuber crops: potential and perspectives. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 860-5.

Endophytic microorganisms which include both bacteria and fungi colonise almost every plant species. In order to colonize the plant and compete with other microorganisms, they produce a plethora of secondary metabolites, including toxins, enzymes, antibiotics, anti-cancer, - 350 - anti-inflammatory and antifungal compounds. Endophytic fungi can have profound impacts on plant communities which include abiotic and biotic stress tolerance, increase of biomass, decrease of water consumption and alteration of resource allocation, nitrogen fixation, increased drought resistance, thermal protection, survival under osmotic stress and degradation of pollutants. Though tuber crops are the second most important group of crop plants providing food energy to humans after cereals, less attention has been paid to the these traditional crops in general. Investigations regarding the association of endophytes with the tuber crops have been sparsely studied though in some tuber crops like cassava, sweet potato and yams, presence of endophytes have been reported. Hence from the scarcely available literature, in the current review an attempt was made to put light on the various beneficial activities of endophytes on tuber crops. These reports glorified many symbiotically associated endophytes to have antagonistic properties against many plant pathogens like Rhizoctoniasolani, Pythiumaphanidermatumand Sclerotiumrolfsii. Species like Rahnellawas resilient to cold shock, UV irradiation and antibiotics. Many diazotropihic and non-diazotropihicendophytic bacteria were involved in nitrogen fixation. Actinomycetesendophytes were novel sources of industrially important thermostableamylolytic enzymes. However, inspite of all these profound beneficial effects endophytic associations are still to be studied in many tuber crops like taro, elephant foot yam, greater yam etc. So this review put forward the urge to carry out comprehensive research on these important microbes on such important crops.

45 ref

011289   Nauanova A;Baimbetova E;Ishmukhanbetova G; Aidarkulova R;Abysheva G;Kenzhegulova S (NO, S. Seyfullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Univ, Prosp., Zhenis 62, Astana, 010000, The Republic of Kazakhstan) : Technology of a creation of a combined microbiological fertilizer based on soil microorganisms. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(3), 1449-56.

Were carried out the results of a research aimed on the production of biofertilizers from waste coal industry with adding of soil microorganisms to the content of consortium. Microbiological analysis of components of complex microbiologically-fertilizer mixtures (CMFM) showed that all groups of microorganisms can proliferate on the surface of the marked substrate. To create CMFM were selected strains of Bacillus mesentericus, Bacillus megatherium, actinomycetes - Streptomyces candidus, isolated from the waste coal industry. The fermentative and nitrogen-fixing activity, growth stimulating and destructive properties of the isolated strains were taken into the consideration while creating CMFM. The total number of microorganisms was stabilized after 2 months of composting, remaining at a high level, in another word, a stable microbial community was created by this period. This indicates for the readiness of the compost. In the process of growth and a development of wheat plants was marked an inhibitory effect of bio-fertilizers on root rot pathogens of wheat. According to the results of a research the promising Bacillus mesentericus, Bacillus megatherium, actinomycetes - Streptomyces candidus were deposited in the "Republican collection of microorganisms" of Central Museum of microorganisms for creation of CMFM. Were developed regulations for the establishment of complex microbiologically-fertilizer mixtures (CMFM) with the microbiological way from the carbonaceous waste.

1 illus, 4 tables, 21 ref

011288   Najm A A;Paknejad F;Kashami A;Ardakani M R; Hadi M R H S (Agronomy Dep, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resource, Karaj Branch, Islamic Aza, Karaj, Iran, Email: farzadpaknejad@gmail.com) : Study of the relationships between tuber nitrate and some qualitative traits of potato tuber (cv. Agria) by statistical analysis. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(3), 1749-55.

Tuber nitrate is one of the major factors affecting the quality of potato. The present study was conducted to determine the relationships between tuber nitrate and some tuber characteristics (weight, specific gravity, tuber diameter, dry matter - 349 - percentage of peel, total and peeled tuber, and amount of nitrate in peel, cortex and pith) in Agriapotato tuber by using the statistical analyses of correlations, stepwise regression and path analysis. Peel, cortex and pith nitrate had significantly positive correlations with total tuber nitrate. While, tuber weight, specific gravity, tuber diameters, total and peeled tuber dry mater percentage had negative correlation with the total tuber nitrate. The specific gravity and pith nitrate had the most significant negative and positive correlation with total tuber nitrate, respectively. The results of stepwise regression showed that the pith nitrate, specific gravity and peel nitrate were the important characteristics of tuber nitrate. Path analysis showed that the pith nitrate and specific gravity had highest positive and negative direct effects on the total nitrate. So, in this experiment tuber specific gravity and, pith and peel nitrate had significant effect on the total nitrate and hence tuber quality.

3 tables, 39 ref

011287   Mavi M S;Sekhon B S;Singh J;Choudhary O P (Soil Science Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: mavims16@pau.edu) : Nitrogen relase kinetics of organic nutrient sources in two benchmark soils of indo-gangetic plains. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1123-8.

An understanding of the mineralization process of organic amendments in soil is required to synchronize N release with crop demand and protect the environment from excess N accumulation. Therefore, we conducted a laboratory incubation experiment to assess nitrogen mineralization potential of crop residues (rice and wheat straw) and organic manures (poultry manure, farmyard manure, cowpea and sesbania) in two benchmark soils (Typic Haplustept and Typic Ustifluvents) of semi-arid region of Punjab, India, varying in textureat field capacity moisture level at a constant temperature of 331øC. Mineralization was faster during first 7 days of incubation in Typic Haplustept and upto 14 days in Typic Ustifluvents which subsequently declined over time. In both soils, net N mineralization continued to increase with increasing period of incubation (expect with crop residues) and was significantly higher in Typic Ustifluvents (54-231æg g-1) than Typic Haplustept (33-203 æg g-1). Compared to unamended soils, percent N mineralized was highest is sesbania (35-40%) followed by cowpea (32-37%) and least in wheat (10-11%) after 42 days of incubation. Thus, sesbania and cowpea may preferably be used to meetthe large N demand during early period of plant growth. Further, mineralization rate constants (k) also indicated that availability of mineral N was significantly higher with application of organic amendments than unamended control treatments in both soils. Therefore, it may be concluded that considerable economy in the use of inorganic N fertilizer can be employed if N mineralization potential of organic inputs is taken into consideration.

3 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

011286   Maurya R P;Agnihotri M;Tiwari S;Yadav L B (Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: rpmaurya_ento@rediffmail.com) : Validation of integrated pest management module against insect pests of pigeonpea, Cajanus sajan in Tarai region of Uttarakhand. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1077-80.

Experiments on validation of integrated pest management (IPM) module against insect pest of pigeonpea in comparison with the Non-IPM (farmer's practices) were conducted at N.E.B. Crop Research Centre, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar during Kharif 2014 and 2015. Adopted IPM module contained Seed treatment with Trichoderma spp. @10g/kg of seed, Sole crop, Bird perches @ 50/ha, need based insecticides spray (Chlorantraniliprole 18.5SC @ 30 g a. i./ha; Neem soap@10g/lit; Acetamiprid 20SP @ 20 g a. i./ha). The results indicated that minimum population of pod borers (Helicoverpa armigera,Maruca vitrata and podfly) and sucking insects (aphids, jassids, pod bug) was reported - 348 - in IPM plots and maximum population of insects was observed in Non-IPM plots. Percent insect control over non-IPM was 50.98% for H. armigera, 44.69% for M. vitrata and 19.17% for Maruca webbing were recorded. While, for sucking pest complex, insect control over non-IPM was 51.59%, 40.36% and 36.17% against jassids, aphids and tur pod bug, respectively. Similarly, minimum pod borer damage (6.48 and 7.71%) was recorded in IPM plots as compared to maximum pod borer damage (8.37 and 8.22%) in non-IPM plots, respectively during 2014 and 2015. Whereas, pooled grain yield for IPM plots was 1286.5 kg/ha for both seasons as against 888 kg/ha in non-IPM plots with 1:2.89 benefit cost ratio. Hence, It is apparent that studied IPM module was able to increase the yield of pigeonepea with lower cost of production as against non-IPM thus it would be benefiting the farmers.

4 tables, 23 ref

011285   Matsagar G D;Toprope V N (Agricultural Botany Dep, College of Agriculture, Latur-413 512) : Correlation analysis for yield and yield contributing traits in Sunflower (Helianthus Annuus L.). Bioinfolet 2017, 14(2), 191-3.

Association analysis was done for nine yield and component characters in sunflower using 20 hybrids across four environments.. The results revealed that head diameter, seed filling, test weight and days to maturity had significant positive association with seed yield. Hence these four characters could be considered as selection indices for high yield. Oil content had non significant and negative association with seed yield.

1 table, 5 ref

011284   Manikandan A;Subramanian K S (NO, ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Nagpur-440 010, Email: poonamani223@gmail.com) : Study on mitigation of ammonia volatilization loss in urea through adsorbents. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 688-92.

Volatilized ammonia loss (VAL) and toxicity are major disadvantages on urea amendment. In order to mitigate, slow (or) controlled release urea based fertilizers are prepared with low cost materials. Therefore, micro and nano-sized adsorbents such as zeolite, biochar were - 347 - impregnated with urea @1:1 ratio for fertilizer formulations. The objective of the study was to evaluate the VAL rate. To study the effect of soil texture, incubation experiment on two different soils of Tamil Nadu (TypicHaplustalf and VerticUstropepts) with 4 physically mixed, 4 fabricated, conventional urea and control without urea determined. Fertilizer formulations were surface applied @ 250 kg N ha^-1 and assessed the VAL rate for 16 days. The trapped ammonia was observed with colour change from pink to greenish and titrated with diluted sulfuric acid. Initial 3 days VAL rate was high on urea, physically mixed adsorbent fertilizers than urea impregnated fertilizers and colour change was observed on every 4-6 h of both soils. In contrast, the urea impregnated fertilizers had colour change after 9-10 h regardless of adsorbent and soils. The fabricated fertilizer observed VAL rate on gradual with low quantity on T5- Zeourea (13.5 days, 15.1 days) T6- Nano-zeourea (15.5 days, 16 days), T9- Biourea (7.5 days, 7.1 days) and T10- Nano-biourea (9 days, 9.7 days) than T2- Urea (5.5 days, 4.6 days) of Alfisols and Inceptisols respectively. Cumulative VAL rate percentage was low on T5- Zeourea (30%, 34%), T6- Nano-zeourea (28%, 29.3%) T9- Biourea (39%, 41.5%) and T10- Nano-biourea (36%, 37.5%) of Alfisols and Inceptisols, respectively on comparison with other fertilizer type.It is concluded that the surface amendment of physically mixed fertilizers not influenced any change on both soils. Urea impregnation influenced on days and cumulative VAL percentage. Our study elucidates that micro and nano porous adsorbents are potential substrate to reduce VAL rate of urea in both soils.

1 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

011283   Majumder S;Halder T K;Saha D (Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741 252, Email: 1991sayan@gmail.com) : Integrated nutrient management of rapeseed (Brassica compestris L. var. yellow sarson grown in a typic haplaquept soil. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1151-6.

The present investigation was conducted to study the influence of integrated nutrient management on fertility build up in a Typic Haplaquept soil as well as its effect on yield and quality parameters of rapeseed (Brassica campestris L. var. yellow sarson). Treatments comprised of recommended doses of N, P and K fertilizers (RDF) in presence and absence of FYM along with different doses of S and Zn either alone or in combination. Results revealed that in general, available N, P, K, S and Zn in soil decreased with increase in the period of crop growth. Addition of FYM increased organic carbon content in soils (upto 104.98 g kg-1increase over initial value). Application of elemental S and Zn-EDTA increased SO₄^-2 content (upto 101.03 kg ha^-1 increase over initial value) in S-treated and DTPA extractable Zn content (upto 0.3 mg kg-1 increase over initial value) in Zn-treated systems respectively. Combined application of higher doses of S and Zn along with FYM and recommended doses of N, P and K fertilizers increased N, P, K, S and Zn uptake by rapeseed crop. Highest seed yield (14.2 q ha^-1) as well as oil (43.2%) and protein contents (21.82%) were recorded in rapeseed which received comparatively higher doses of S and Zn along with FYM and RDF.

5 tables, 31 ref

011282   Machenahalli S;Nargund V B (Plant Pathology Div, Central Coffee Research Institute, C.R. Station, Chikmagaluru-577 117, Email: santosh3881@gmail.com) : Chilli fruit rot complex and die-back in South India. J mycopathol Res 2017, 55(2), 143-62.

Chilli (Capsicum annuum - 346 - L.) is one of the important spice/vegetable/cash crop grown in India which belongs to family solanaceae. Chilli fruit rot disease is major yield limiting factor. It has been observed to occur in three phases viz.,damping off stage or seedling blight, prevalent in the nursery, die back stage which is initiated at different stages of growth and fruit rot stage in which the ripe fruits are infected. The last phase causes extensive damage to the fruits since the lesions on the fruits considerably reduce the market value and quality of the produce. An intensive roving survey was carried out during 2012-13 and 2013-14 (kharif and rabi/ summer) in major chilli growing states of South India viz., Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka to know the incidence and severity of fruit rot disease. The highest fruit rot incidence (19.97%) with 13.77 PDI was observed in Maharashtra followed by Andhra Pradesh (19.82%, 13.07 PDI). From infected fruits, pathogens like Colletotrichum capsici, C. gloeosporioides, Alternaria alternata, Fusarium oxysporum and F. sporotrichioides were isolated. Frequency of occurrence of single pathogen was always less compared to combination of pathogens. In combination of C. capsici and Fusarium spp. were found in 28.37 per cent where as C. capsici with A. altemata was 11.35 per cent, combination of C. capsici, C. gloeosporioides and A.altenata was 10.64 per cent.

5 illus, 7 tables, 13 ref

011281   Lalita;Yogesh Kumar (Entomology Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: lalitapanwar17@gmail.com ) : Foraging behavior of major insect pollinators on pumpkin, Curcurbita moschata (Duch.ex Lam). J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1208-13.

Foraging activity period of different honey bee species on C. moschata (C-1076) flowers at different day hours during August-September (2013) revealed that A. dorsata, A. mellifera, A. cerana and A. florea initiated their activity early in the morning at 0530, 0615, 0625 and 0630 h, respectively and stopped their activity at 1030, 1020, 1025 and 1030 h of the day, respectively while on C. moschata (C-1106, A. dorsata, A. mellifera, A. cerana and A. florea initiated their activity early in the morning at 0535, 0615, 0620 and 0625 h, respectively and ceased their activity at 1045, 1025, 1015 and 1040 h of the day, respectively. The mean foraging speed (time spent per flower) in seconds on flowers of pumpkin (C-1106) was maximum of A. florea (181.72), followed by A. mellifera (7.15), A. cerana (6.05) and A. dorsata spent least time (5.83) and in pumpkin (C-1076), foraging speed was maximum in case of A. florea (178.71), followed by A. mellifera (7.63), A. cerana (6.24) and A. dorsata spent least time (6.06). The mean foraging rate (flowers visited per minute) on flowers of pumpkin (C-1106) was maximum in case of A. dorsata (5.13), followed by A. cerana (4.30), A. mellifera (4.16) and A. florea visited least flower (0.32) and in pumpkin (C-1076), foraging rate was maximum in case of A. dorsata (4.96), followed by A. cerana (4.19), A. mellifera (4.02) and A. florea visited least flower (0.33). Present study advises the farmers that they should not apply the pesticide when the activityof honey bee is on the peak period because pesticides application at the time of bee activity in the field crop causes mortality of bees.

2 illus, 5 tables, 16 ref

011280   Kumari N;Avtar R;Sharma B;Rani B;Jain V; Sheoran R K (Chemistry and Biochemistry Dep, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: nishaahlawat211@gmail.com ) : Biochemical assessment of nutritional status in Indian mustard. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1068-71.

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the nutritional potential of five different Indian mustard genotypes. Fatty acid composition was determined in the oil, whereas seed meal - 345 - was analyzed for limiting amino acids (tryptophan and methionine), protein content, glucosinolate content and antioxidant potential (DPPH free radical scavenging activity, total antioxidant activity and iron chelating activity). The monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) were found to be maximum in RH 0749 (58.70%) followed by RH (OE) 0801 (48.91%), JM 6011 (47.03%), EC 597328 and EC 597340 (45.77%). Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) were observed maximum in EC 597340 (47.45%).Glucosinolate content ranged from 42.80 (EC 597328) to 79.79 æmole/g defatted seed meal (EC 597340). The methanolic seed meal extract exhibited a concentration dependent elimination of DPPH free radicals. All the five genotypes showed about 50% inhibition in 3.0 mg of dry seed meal. The highest total antioxidant activity (20.41mg/g) and metal ion chelating activity (32.58%) was observed in RH 0749. Protein content varied from 33.57 [RH (OE) 0801] to 38.01% (RH 0749). Maximum methionine and tryptophan content were recorded in RH 0749 (0.99 and 1.01 g/100g protein, respectively). Thus, RH 0749 was observed as a potent variety in terms of total antioxidant activity, metal ion chelating activity, protein content, methionine and tryptophan content.

2 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

011279   Khound A;Barua P C;Saud B;Saikia A;Kumar S (Horticulture Dep, AAU, Jorhat, Assam, Email: amritasharmah@gmail.com) : Piperine content variation in different Piper longum germplasms of north east India determined through RP-HPLC method. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 960-5.

The present experiment was conducted at Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat with ten accessions including check variety of Piper Longum germplasm collected from different states of North Eastern region during 2013-14 and 2014-15.The piperine, a major alkaloid used in different therapeutic treatment, per cent content was determined from dried plant materials. Deionised water was used throughout the experiment and the chromatographic separation was carried out in an isocratic elution mode on RP-18 column with 5æm particle size, 4.6mm internal diameter and 250mm length. The mobile phase was a mixture of methanol and water (80: 20). The solvent flow rate was 1.0 ml/minwith injection volume 20 æL. The photo diode array detector wavelength was set at 342 nm for the identification of piperine in all extracts. The per cent piperine content in extract was found to be 42.36 per cent in germplasm PLJ-30.The highest per cent piperine content in fruit was recorded in PLJ-11(7.85%) followed by germplasm PLJ-9 (7.64) and significantly superior over check variety "Viswam"(5.15%). The descending order of piperine content in fruits among germplasm was PLJ-11?PLJ-09?PLJ-30?PLJ-17? PLJ-03? PLJ-19? check variety?PLJ-01? PLJ-20 and PLJ-16. It can be revealed from the present experiment that piper germplasm with high piperine content has a great scope for commercial cultivation as alkaloid piperine has high demand in pharmaceutical use.

7 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref