040641   GURUMURTHY H, SHIVAPRAKASH M K, MAINA C C (Agricultural Microbiology Dep, UAS, Bengaluru - 560 065, Email: gurumurthyh.8031@gmail.com) : Influence of liquid formulations of beneficial microorganisms on biocontrol efficiency, seedling vigour index and growth of spinach (Spinacia oleracea) under Green House Condition. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 582-5.

The study was conducted at Department of Agricultural Microbiology, UAS, GKVK, Bangalore. There were eight treatments replicated thrice in CRD design. Liquid bioinoculants used in this study were viz., Azotobacter chroococcum Bacillus megaterium Frateuria aurantia Psuedomonas fluorescens Bacillus subtilis and Trichoderma viridae as single inoculation and also as consortia. Treatment T₈ (Pathogens+Bacillus subtilis+Pseudomonas fluorescens+Trichoderma viride) recorded maximum biocontrol efficiency (82.92 %) and vigour index (1997.42) followed by T (58.91 % and 1707.87). Growth parameter like maximum plant height (5.80 cm at 15 DAS, 15.57 cm at 21 DAS 7 and 37.03 cm at 30 DAS) was recorded in T₅. Maximum number of leaves (5.30 at 15 DAS, 9.47 at 21 DAS and 12.97 at 30 DAS) was recorded in T5 which received consortia of Azotobacter chroococcum, Bacillus megaterium, Frateuria aurantia, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Bacillus subtilis Trichoderma viride and . Maximum root length, shoot length, plant fresh weight and plant dry weight were 10.40 cm, 37.03 cm, 9.37 g and 3.27 g, respectively, recorded in T₅ followed by single inoculation and control treatments.

3 tables, 16 ref

040639   GHALEM S, HASSANI F (Tlemcen Univ, Chetouane, Algeria, Email: sarah.ghalem@outlook.com) : Phytobiological and morphological diversity of a malvaceous Lavatera Maritima in Rachgoune and Oulhassa Region of Tlemcen. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 575-8.

The vegetation of Tlemcen presents a good example of the study of biological diversity. This study is devoted to a phytoecological analysis in the stations of Rachgoune and Oulhassa, the latter is characterized by an important floristic diversity.

6 illus, 3 tables, 7 ref

040638   MOMIN M D, TRIPATHI S K (Forestry Dep, Mizoram Univ, Mizoram - 796 004, Email: mominmarcy@gmail.com) : Rhizosphere Streptomyces species from major crop plants of shifting cultivation, Northeast India. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 570-4.

In the present study, the main objectives were isolation of actinomycetes from the rhizosphere of crops under jhum cultivation and determination of physico chemical properties of rhizopsheric soil. Rhizosphere soil was collected from the major crop plants like rice, maize, - bean and yam from Lengpui and Reiek of Mizoram, Northeast India. Actinomycetes were isolated by the standard method of serial dilution and identified by following the keys of Bergey's Manual of Determinative Bacteriology and further isolates were tested for salt-tolerant activities. Physico chemical properties of rhizospheric soil of major crop plants were analysed. Total 32 rhizospheric actinomycetes were obtained and - identified them upto genus level as Streptomyces species. Strain SKT12, SKT33 and SKT40 isolated from maize and yam showed different ranges of salt-tolerance activity. Strain SKT34 which isolated from crop rice showed casein hydrolysis activity. The physico chemical analysis - of soil revealed variations of soil properties between the crops. Major crops of Mizoram under shifting cultivation have great potential to influence of soil properties and soil actinomycetes particularly Streptomyces species.

3 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

042446   KUMAR V, RAJKUMAR U, NIRANJAN M, RAO S V R (ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Telangana- 500030, Hyderabad, Email: ullengala@yahoo.com) : Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on chicken meat and egg consumption patterns in rural and urban areas. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(2), 147-50.

A cross-sectional study was conducted in first and second week of May, 2020 for impact assessment on eggs and chicken consumption during the COVID-19 lockdown period of phase I and II (24^th March- 3^rd May, 2020). Data were collected through semistructured interview schedule among randomly selected 77 consumers from 11 states of India. During the lockdown period 26.9 % families left consumption of chicken meat and 20.8 % families left eating egg due to panic of COVID 19, non-availability due to supply chain disruption, restrictions of containment zones. The chicken consumption significantly (Pd”0.05) reduced during the COVID lockdown period from 2.5 kg to 1.9 kg per week per family. There was significant decrease in consumption of chicken by 26.9 % and eggs by 28 % in families who continue to take chicken and eggs during lockdown period. The weekly chicken consumption reduced by40.7 % in high, 4.9 % in medium and 15.4 % low consumption groups. The impact was visible in low consumption level group, in which majority of Indian consumers fall. Consumers were shifted to other vegetarian source of protein during the lockdown period. The government needs to focus on the creation self-sustaining nutrition centric micro-enterprises/start-ups with emphasis and support to the local production and supply chain. 

3 tables, 16 ref

042443   SHANMUGAM S, PRAKASH B, PANDA A K (ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Rajendranagar - 500 030, Hyderabad, Email: shanmugam.murugesan@icar.gov.in) : Effect of dietary organic zinc and chromium supplementation on semen quality in layer breeders. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(2), 133-8.

Study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of supplementing organic zinc and chromium (Cr) on semen quality in layer breeders. Forty Dahlem Red roosters of 22 weeks age were distributed into four groups and diet was supplemented with organic Cr at graded levels (0, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9 mg/kg) for twelve weeks duration. Semen collected at 4^th and 8^th week of experiment was analysed for different gross parameters and seminal plasma lipid peroxidation. A four week fertility trial was conducted with fixed dose semen insemination (100 million sperm in 0.1ml) every week. In another experiment, thirty two adult Dahlem Red roosters divided into four groups were supplemented with organic zinc (0, 40, 70 and 100 mg/kg diet) for eight weeks. Semen was collected and evaluated for different gross parameters, superoxide dismutase activity and lipid peroxidation at 4^th and 8^th week of experiment. Sperm was evaluated for nuclear maturity at eighth week of experiment. Roosters supplemented with organic zinc 100 mg/kg diet produced significantly (P < 0.05) higher MTT formazan indicating higher metabolic activity of sperm. Zinc supplementation had no effect on any other parameters studied. Significant difference (P < 0.05) between weeks of experiment in appearance, live and abnormal sperm was observed. Supplemental Cr did not affect semen parameters, fertility or hatchability. In conclusion, organic Cr supplementation did not improve semen quality, fertility and hatchability in layer breeders and supplementation of organic zinc at 100 mg/kg improved sperm metabolic activity.

4 tables, 50 ref

042442   MOUNICA N, RAMANA J V, RAO D S, KAVITHA J S, KAVITHA P (Animal Nutrition Dep, Veterinary Science Coll, Tirupati – 517 502, Andhra Pradesh, Email: jvenkataramana@rediffmail.com) : Effect of replacing fish meal protein by shrimp waste meal protein with or without supplementation of amino acids on performance and cost economics of broilers. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(2), 129-32.

A feeding trial was conducted for 6 weeks using 375 day old commercial broiler chicks to ascertain the effect of Shrimp waste meal as a replacement for fish meal in broiler diet. Chicks were distributed randomly to five treatments with three replicates of twenty five birds each. In pre-starter diet, the fish meal contribution to the dietary crude protein was replaced with shrimp waste meal at 0 % (T₁ ), 20 % (T₂ ), 30 % (T₃ ), T₂ + synthetic lysine and methionine (T₄ ), T₃ + synthetic lysine and methionine (T₅ ). In starter and finisher diets the shrimp waste meal protein was added up to 0 % (T₁ ), 50 % (T₂ ), 100 % (T₃ ), 50 % + synthetic lysine and methionine (T₄ ), 100 % + synthetic lysine and methionine (T₅ ). In starter, finisher and overall growth phases birds fed (T₄ , T₂ and T₁ ) diets had significantly (P<0.01) higher weight gains when compared to birds fed T₃ and T₅ groups. Irrespective of the growth phase, the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was comparable among the treatments. The feed cost per kg live weight gain ranged from Rs.48.08 (T₄ ) to 51.13 (T₅ ). The feed cost per kg live weight gain was significantly (P<0.01) reduced in birds fed with diets T₁ , T₂ and T₄ when compared to T₃ and T₅ . The results of the present study led to the conclusion that, the protein from fish meal can be safely substituted up to 30 % with the Shrimp waste meal protein in pre-starter and up to 50 % in starter and finisher broiler diets along with supplementation of synthetic lysine and methionine.

6 tables, 17 ref

042441   ONI O O, ALABI J O, ADEBAYO R M (Federal Univ of Agriculture, PMB 2240, Ogun State, Nigeria, Email: joelalabi@gmail.com) : Comparative efficacy of lactose and mannan-oligosaccharides on performance, nutrient digestibility and health status of broiler chicks. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(2), 121-8.

This study assessed the responses of growth performance, nutrient digestibility, haematology, serum chemistry and liver enzymes activity in 480 1-d-old Anak 2000 broiler chicks fed graded levels of lactose (LAC) or mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) for 21 d. Prebiotics (LAC and MOS) were added to corn-soybean meal based diets at varying inclusion levels (0, 250, 500 and 750ppm) to form 8 dietary groups. Results revealed that broiler chicks fed prebiotic treated feeds up to 750 ppm LAC and 500 ppm MOS had considerably higher (P<0.05) daily weight gain. Better (P<0.05) feed conversion was obtained in chicks fed 500 ppm MOS compared to other groups. PCV and Hb values obtained in chicks fed 750ppm MOS doubled those of birds fed 250ppm LAC, while birds in LAC 500 group had 28.50 % less WBC counts as compared with MOS 250ppm group. Heterophils and heterophil/lymphocyte ratio were greater (P<0.05) in birds fed 500ppm MOS compared with those fed 250ppm LAC. Serum glucose increased (P<0.05) in broilers fed prebiotics-supplemented diets compared with those fed prebiotics-free diets. Total protein and globulin obtained in broilers fed 250ppm LAC were 32 and 45 % lower (P<0.05) than those fed 500ppm MOS. Higher (P<0.05) uric acid was obtained in birds fed diet supplemented with 250ppm LAC. Dietary LAC or MOS did not affect (P>0.05) nutrient digestibility, lipid profile and liver enzymes. In conclusion, MOS enhanced growth performance and health status of broiler chicks more efficiently compared to LAC.

1 illus, 5 tables, 34 ref

042440   YADAV S, PATHERA A K, ISLAM R U, MALIK A K, SHARMA D P, SINGH P K (Livestock Products Technology Dep, LUVAS, Hisar-125 004, Haryana, Email: syadav_lpt123@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of incorporation of wheat bran with dried apple and carrot pomace on quality attributes of chicken sausage. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(2), 115-20.

An experiment was performed to judge the sequel of adding wheat bran (WB) in combination with dried apple (DAP) or carrot pomace (DCP) on physico-chemical, nutritional and organoleptic attributes of chicken sausage. Lean chicken meat was replaced with 2 % WB+4 % DAP (WAS-4) and 2 % WB+4 % DCP (WCS-4) to prepare fibre treated sausage. Raw emulsion was stuffed in casings and cooked in a closed container for 30 minutes. Cooking yield and emulsion stability of treated products were remarkably better than control. However, a reduction in moisture, protein, cholesterol content and pH in treated sausages was noticed. Treated sausage had a remarkable surge in dietary fibre quantity. WAS-4 sausages had better colour scores than control and WCS-4 sausages. Treated sausages had inferior scores than control for organoleptic attributes except colour during refrigerated storage. A significant rise in thiobarbituric acid (TBA) value and microbial counts was noticed with progression in refrigerated (4±1 °C) storage in control as well as treated sausages. However, treated sausage had slightly lower TBA values than control during refrigerated period. It is concluded that, healthier chicken sausage having appreciable dietary fibre content and organoleptic acceptability and with 15 days of refrigerated storage stability can be developed using combination of wheat bran (2 %) with dried apple pomace (4 %) or dried carrot pomace (4 %) each.

3 tables, 33 ref

042439   NATH B K, AKTER N, HOSSAIN M A, NAJMIN S, NATH C, HOSSAIN E (Animal Science and Nutrition Dep, Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Chattogram - 4225, Bangladesh, Email: emrancvasu@yahoo.com) : Effects of graded levels of baker’s yeast on performance, gut morphology and hemato-biochemical indices of broiler chickens. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(2), 105-13.

The study was directed to explore the impacts of graded levels of baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on performance, carcass attributes, gut morphology, and hemato-biochemical indices of industrial broiler birds. Two hundred forty-old-unsexed Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly distributed into four unique feeding regimens designated as T₀ (0 % Yeast), T₁ (2 % Yeast), T₂ (2.5 % yeast) and T₃ (3 % yeast) following completely randomized design. Birds were raised on litter up to 5^th wk of age. Supplementation of baker’s yeast had no significant effect (P>0.05) on feed intake and weight gain of the broiler chickens. However, FCR improved (P0.05) at 3^rd week of age. Villus height and cryptal profundity were expanded significantly (P<0.05). Hemoglobin, red blood cell, packed cell volume, erythrocyte sedimentation rate stayed unaltered (P>0.05) due to yeast supplementation. Serum concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, calcium, total protein, and uric acid were not significantly altered (P>0.05) to the dietary regimens. It was concluded that the usage of elevated levels of baker’s yeast in the diet of the industrial broiler promoted FCR and gut morphology without influencing carcass attributes and hemato-biochemical indices. Supplementation of baker’s yeast above 2 % reveals no extra benefit.

6 tables, 83 ref

042438   SABAT S S, NAYAK G, MISHRA C (Animal Breeding and Genetics Dep, Odisha Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Odisha, Email: drchinmoymishra@gmail.com) : Estimation of genetic distance using principal component analysis in native chicken population of Odisha. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(2), 99-103.

The genetic diversity of chicken population need to be estimated for designing a suitable breeding programme for their sustainable use. The primary objective of the present study was to measure important morphological and qualitative traits in the four chicken populations namely, Rangua, Khodia, Hansli and Balia of tribal region of northern Odisha. Clustering was done on the basis of principal components using D2 analysis. Out of the studied nine morphological characters and nine qualitative characters, it was found that ten characters i.e. plumage colour (PC), adult body weight (ABW), keel length (KL), shank length (SL), thigh length (TL), body length (BL), chest circumference (CC), check weight (CW), wingspan (WS) and annual egg production (AEP) accounts for maximum variance. Four characters (TL, WS, CC and AEP) load well to give maximum variance of 32.723 %. Clustering resulted in formation of 3 clusters I, II and III which include Khodia and Balia, Hansli and Rangua, respectively. The intercluster distance depicted that Rangua and Hansli were the most distant groups and can be used for selective breeding to exploit the heterosis. Khodia and Hansli are two divergent population also can be used for selective breeding to exploit the heterosis.

4 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

042437   KUMARI P, CHANDRAMONI, SINGH P K, SINGH A K (Animal Nutrition Dep, Bihar Veterinary Coll, Patna-14, Bihar, Email: punitaivri31@gmail.com) : Effect of different herbs and spices on cholesterol lowering in broiler: An overview. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(2), 91-7.

Cholesterol, a steroid lipid is an integral part of cell membrane and being synthesized regularly in all parts of body and is necessary for proper functioning of all the cells. A high risk of heart ailment and stroke is always associated with the high level of intake of cholesterol. While body makes some cholesterol on its own, it can also be contributed in the system from certain food sources, such as eggs, dairy products, meat or other saturated fat sources. Cholesterol is required to produce hormones, bile acid and vitamin D, but high inclusion of cholesterol in the system can clog arteries, leading to the development of heart problems. Animal protein source are mainly rich in cholesterol and poultry meat is one of the main meat products consumed by humans. Though poultry meat is known as white meat, but its cholesterol content has become a primary area of consumer concern due to increased awareness of link between higher dietary saturated fat / cholesterol intake and incidences of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). This article reviews various herbs/spices such as sugar beet meal, neem leaf meal, linseed meal, and coriander seed meal which are reported to be significantly associated with cholesterol lowering effect.

2 tables, 71 ref

042436   PANDA S, KURKURE N (Pathology Dep, Nagpur Veterinary Coll, Nagpur-440 006, Email: nitinkurkure@rediffmail.com) : Therapeutics for viral diseases of poultry: A review. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(2), 85-9.

Poultry farming has flourished during the last few decades. Commercialized poultry farming has dominated the backyard farming. Despite diversified endeavors to increase productivity, the anticipated benefits are hampered due to several constraints, out of which viral pathogens are of major concern. Both RNA and DNA viruses cause diseases in poultry. Infectious laryngotracheitis virus, Avian influenza virus, Newcastle disease virus, Marek’s disease virus, Infectious bronchitis virus, Infectious bursal disease virus, Egg drop syndrome virus are some of the potential viral pathogens causing enormous economic losses worldwide in the poultry industries. Despite vaccination programs are carried out broadly for these viruses. The rapid replication of these viruses in the chicken host has a higher therapeutic challenge than the fungal and bacterial pathogens. Moreover, due to a lack of investment for antiviral drug development along with a narrow spectrum effect of them, there is an abridged use of antiviral preparations in the veterinary field. However, antiinfluenza drugs, anti-herpes drugs, and immunomodulators in poultry provide significant action against viral diseases. Due to adverse side effects and drug residues in tissues, some countries have banned the use of some antiviral compounds in food animals as used in humans to prevent the emergence of latent strains. Owing to this, phytotherapy has proved to be a viable alternative as prophylaxis against viral diseases, reducing the incidence of drug resistance and effective immunomodulator. In this review, the antiviral therapies have been summarized, as well as shedding light on the development of effective antiviral therapeutics about the present and emerging poultry diseases worldwide.

41 ref

040625   HANUMANTHARAJU K N, THANGAVEL K, AMIRTHAM D, RANI C I (Food Process Engineering Dep, TNAU, Coimbatore - 561 204, Email: rajuknhgowda@gmail.com) : Physical and antimicrobial properties of Cissus quadrangularis stem extract incorporated edible films. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 497-501.

Cissus quadrangularis, is widely accepted natural medicine for bone setting in Indian Ayurveda. The GC-MS analysis of this plant stem extract also confirmed the presence of phyto chemicals such as octadrine, piperidinol, phytol in it. Edible films (EFs) at different concentration of corn starch, glycerol and C. quadrangularis stem extract using Box Behnken method under Response Surface methodology. Thickness of the prepared EFs varied between opacity of the prepared EFs in the range of Tensile strength 79-136µm and the 20.31-30.45 %. (S) ( of the EFs was decreased significantly with increase in glycerol content. Increase in plant extract concentration significantly decreased TS of the EF. Water vapor permeability (0.739 * 10^-7 g/m. s. pa - 10.9 *10^-7 g/m. s. pa) of the EFs significantly decreased with increased starch, glycerol and plant extract concentrations. EFs with 15 % plant extract showed antimicrobial effect on E. coli bacteria. Optimized EF formulation contains 3.33, 20 and 15 per cent starch, glycerol and C. quadrangularis stem extract.

3 illus, 18 ref

042435   BABYUSHA R, SAKTHIVEL K M, NARMATHA N, UMA V (Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education Dep, Veterinary Coll and Research Institute, Namakkal -637 002, Email: sakthivelvet@gmail.com) : Current scenario of commercial desi bird venture in Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 79-83.

A study was undertaken with the objective of assessing the current scenario of commercial desi bird venture in Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. A total of 60 farmers involved in commercial desi bird venture and 30 backyard poultry farmers constituted the sample for the study. The findings of the study revealed that majority of the commercial desi bird farmers were male, educated, large farmers and belonged to high income group compared to backyard poultry farmers. Better participation of youth was noticed in commercial desi bird venture. The study also revealed that the respondents of commercial desi bird venture differ significantly from backyard poultry farmers with respect to age, gender, educational status, land holding, annual family income, experience in backyard poultry farming, flock size, poultry breed, sources of chick, purpose of rearing, mass media exposure, attitude towards commercial desi bird venture and entrepreneurial behaviour. These characteristics need to be considered while formulating extension programmes for development of commercial desi bird venture.

4 tables, 10 ref

042434   KHUNTIA V K, SWAIN P, KUMARI S, DAS B C (Veterinary& Animal Husbandry Extension Dep, Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry Coll, Bhubaneswar-751 003 (Odisha), Email: vikas92khuntia@gmail.com) : Training needs assessment of tribal backyard poultry farmers in Kandhamal district of Odisha. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 75-8.

Rearing of backyard poultry has been an age old practice of tribal community. But the traditional method of rearing poultry is not remunerative enough to maintain their livelihood. In order to enhance theincome from backyard poultry farming, appropriate intervention through training is needed and for that the areas of training need are required to be assessed critically. The present study was carried out to know the training needs areas of tribal respondents in Kandhamal district of Odisha. A total of 60 respondents wereinterviewed from 6 villages for data collection. It was observed that training need on feeding management in poultry was ranked I followed by breeding management, disease management, care and management of birds, marketing and record keeping, shed management, and government schemes in poultry as II, III, IV, V, VI and VII, respectively. Under these categories, training to make balanced ration, knowledge about mating with superior breeds,vaccination to prevent disease,care and management of chicks, selling and purchasing of poultry birds and its importance, parameters for construction of poultry shed, and knowledge about loan and subsides were prioritisedby the majority of tribal farmers. Therefore, through gradual scientific training intervention in the above identified training need areas it will be possible forthe backyard poultry tribal farmers to enhance their income, overall socio-economic and socio-cultural development.

2 tables, 4 ref

040624   MUDHAFAR M, ZAINOL I, JAAFAR C N A, ALSAILAWI H A, MAJHOOL A A, ALSAADY M M B (Chemistry Dep, Pendidikan Sultan Idris Univ, Perak, Malaysia, Email: almosawy2014@gmail.com) : Phytochemical screening and characterization of Meliadubia leaves extract for antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli Staphylococcus aureus. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 493-6.

In this study, the leaves of Meliadubia were extracted through the hot-extraction method using distilled water as a solvent. The crude extract of M. dubia was evaluated for their chemical group compounds using phytochemical screening for the chemical group compounds. M. dubia Meanwhile, Gas chromatography (GC), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to conform to the fictional groups in the leave of M. dubia. Phytochemical screening analysis was done using common procedures and had shown the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, tannins, steroids, and flavonoids. Twenty-two compounds were identified in the GCMass spectrometry. The highest compounds were Pyridine, 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-3-methyl (17.03 %), 1-azabicyclo (3.1.0) hexane (12.16 %), and 2-Undecanol (7.63 %), while the lowest compounds were Heptafluorobutyric acid, n-tetradecyl ester (0.79 %) and 4-Methyl-3-pentenal (0.79 %). The EDX analysis presented two elements, which were carbon (53 %) and oxygen (46 %). The M. dubia band at 1668 cm^-1 refers to the amide I C=O stretching, and the peak at 2140 cm^-1 is associated to the alkyne group that exists in the phyto-constituents of M. dubia extract. Meanwhile, the peak that was monitored at 3301 cm⁻¹ corresponds to the amide A (N-H). The observed peaks are mainly discovered as flavanoids and terpenoids that exist significantly in the plant extract. The antibacterial activities investigated against gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli (E.coli) and gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The results had presented the factional activity for M. dubia against both pathogens.

4 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

042433   SIROHI R, SHUKLA P K, BHATTACHARYYA A, SINGH Y, SINGH D N, KUMAR V (Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry Coll, DUVASU, Mathura, Email: vetsirohi@rediffmail.com) : Effect of different lighting regimen on the body weight, FCR, haematological attributes and immunocompetence traits of turkey poults. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 69-73.

A study was conducted to assess the effect of different lighting regimen on the turkey poults. 144 turkey poults of small white variety aged one week were distributed into three treatment groups, each comprising of three replicates of 16 poults. T1 poults were subjected to conventional lighting programme (16L: 8D), T2 poults were subjected to continuous lighting programme (24L: 0D) and T3 poults were subjected to intermittent lighting programme (16L: 3D:2L:3D). The average weekly body weight was significantly higher (P<0.05) in T2 than other two treatment groups at 3^rd and 4^th week of age. Further, T2 group poults had numerically higher body weight compared to the other two treatments. FCR during 1-8 weeks and the overall FCR was significantly better (P<0.05) in continuous lighting programme than conventional and intermittent lighting programmes. No significant difference was observed in haematological attributes. Total immunoglobulins and mercapto-ethanol sensitive (IgM) antibody titer (log₂ ) values in response to SRBC were significantly higher (P<0.05) in continuous lighting programme than intermittent lighting programme. In conclusion, turkey poults exhibited better growth, FCR and immunity in continuous lighting regimen. Further, there was no adverse effect of continuous lighting regimen in haematological attributes of turkey poults.

5 tables, 28 ref

042432   DALAL D S, MALIK B S, RATWAN P, PATIL C S, KUMAR M (AGB Dep, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, LUVAS, Hisar, Email: punam.ratwan@gmail.com) : Mortality pattern evaluation in layer and broiler chickens at an organized farm of Northern India. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 63-7.

The present study was undertaken to analyse the mortality records of 1409 layer and 1202 broiler parent stock birds in order to assess their age group and season wise mortality pattern. In both layers as well as broilers, maximum cases were observed in age group above 24 weeks of age and minimum were in 18-24^th weeks of age. Maximum and minimum numbers of cases were observed during summer and autumn season, respectively. Yolk sac infection was found to be most common cause of mortality up to six weeks of age in both layer and broiler birds. After one week of age, hepatitis was observed as one of the major diseases in all the age groups. Coccidiosis was seen as the second most common cause of mortality during 6-12 weeks of age. Mortality due to egg peritonitis and egg-bound condition was also observed in adult laying hens. In all the age groups, multiple organ infection was one of the important causes of mortality in both layers and broilers. In the present study, all prevalent diseases were reported throughout year except heat stress in summers and inclusion body hepatitis and enteritis in rainy season. In summers, major reason for the mortality was yolk sac infection although in all other seasons multiple organ infection was the main reason of the mortality in broilers. Most of the infections in poultry birds were because of poor hygienic conditions, therefore, strict quality control of feed and water along with proper hygienic conditions in hatchery could be helpful in reducing the mortality at the farm.

4 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

042431   CHAUHAN S S, SHARMA R K, SINGH S K, SHUKLA S K, PALOD J, SINGH M K (Poultry Science (PSC) Dep, Uttar Pradesh Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Univ of Veterinary Sciences, Mathura-281 001 (UP), Email: drmksingh_1@rediffmail.com) : Assessment of certain feed supplements on antibody titer, faecal pathogens and NPK contents of litter in broilers. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 59-62.

The present study evaluated the effect of dietary inclusion of various feed supplements and their combination on the antibody titer, faecal pathogens and NPK contents of broilers for 6 weeks. Day-old broiler chicks (n=252) were randomly assigned to seven treatment groups consisted of 3 replicates per treatment. The first treatment was designated as control (T₀ ) in which no supplement was added to the feed, while in treatments T₁ ; organic mineral mixture, T₂ ; organic mineral mixture, T₃ ; probiotics, T₄ ; enzyme and probiotics, T₅ ; emulsifier were provided through the feed. In the T₆ group, 3 percent less energy was given through feed. Immunoglobin G were significantly (P<0.05) increased and cortisol values decreased in supplemented groups as compared to the T0 (control) group. The pathogens viz., E. coli and Salmonella enteritidis were found absent in the faeces of birds of all the experimental groups. The nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium values were significantly (P<0.05) increased in feed supplemented groups than the T₀ (control) group. The increase in IgG levels in supplemented groups indicated the better immune status of the birds whereas decreased levels of cortisol in the treated groups showed lower levels of stress.

4 tables, 17 ref

042430   VINOTHRAJ P, SARAVANA A S, PANDIAN M, BABU T, BABU R N (Animal Husbandry Economics Dep, Madras Veterinary Coll, TANUVAS, Chennai-7, Email: sermasaravanapandian.a@tanuvas.ac.in) : Consumer’s preference for quality attributes of chicken meat: An application of conjoint analysis. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 55-7.

As Indian economies grow, Indian per capita income is likely to increase. From economics point of view, it is expected that betteroff consumers will move to better quality of food attributes such as freshness, food safety, quality and healthfulness in their food intake. This study aimed to investigate the demand for chicken meat attributes by consumers. The study considers the conjoint analysis technique as a method for acquiring insights into preferences for chicken meat. The technique was applied to establish the trade-offs that consumers make between type of bird, appearance of meat, and form of chicken meat. Conjoint analysis was utilized to estimate the relative importance of attributes for chicken meat. The results revealed that the ideal characteristic of chicken meat should be type (broiler bird), appearance (without skin) and form of meat (curry cuts). We also found that consumers were also willing to pay more for their preferred attributes. The results derived out of the study had given valuable suggestion to poultry farmers and market functionaries to improve their marketing strategies for better market positioning, in line with the demanded chicken meat attributes.

3 tables, 12 ref

042429   SHANMUGAM M, KANNAKI T R (ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Rajendranagar-500 030, Hyderabad, Email: shanmugam.murugesan@icar.gov.in) : Effect of semen parameters on duration of fertility in layer breeder chicken. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 51-3.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of semen parameters on duration of fertility. Eleven birds from White Leghorn and PD3 lines (29 weeks age) were randomly selected for semen collection by abdominal massage. Semen samples were evaluated for different gross semen parameters. Seminal plasma was separated and evaluated for lipid peroxidation and progesterone level. White Leghorn males had significantly (P<0.05) higher sperm concentration, MTT dye reduction activity and membrane integrity (hypo-osmotic swelling test). The semen volume and abnormal sperm were significantly (P<0.05) higher in PD3 line. There were no significant differences in seminal plasma lipid peroxidation and progesterone levels. At 30^th week an artificial insemination (AI) trial was conducted using fixed dose of sperm (100 millions) in 0.1ml of semen for studying duration of fertility. Semen from each line was pooled and inseminated into 20 hens of respective lines. No difference in duration of fertility was observed between the two lines. The results of this study indicated that though there were differences in semen quality between the lines it did not influence the duration of fertility.

2 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

042428   PANDIAN C,SELVAN S T (Poultry Science Dep, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Chennai-07, Email: chinnaduraipandian75@gmail.com) : Flow-cytometric method for rapid determination of sperm viability and acrosome integrity in ostrich semen (Struthio camelus). Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 47-9.

Commercial exploitation of ratite species such as ostrich, rhea and emu has prompted a renewed interest in the structure of ratite spermatozoa. Flow cytometry provides the possibility of analyzing a high number of spermatozoa in less than 1 minute. The per cent livability and acrosome integrity of ostrich spermatozoa were analysed using flow-cytometry technique. A total of nine individual male birds was evaluated for sperm viability and acrosomal integrity using flow-cytometry technique. In flow-cytometry, the live spermatozoa have been depicted in green and dead spermatozoa in red colour. Likewise, in acrosome integrity, the intact acrosome is depicted in green and lost or damaged acrosome is depicted in red colour. Per cent live spermatozoa had no significant difference among males, however, numerical difference was observed and the value ranged from 70.85 to 85.09 with the mean value of 80.51 ± 0.98 %. The per cent acrosome integrity had significant (P<0.01) difference among ostrich birds studied, and the values ranged from 71.94 to 94.59 % with the mean value of 83.22 ± 0.73 %. This is a pilot study in analyzing the live spermatozoa and acrosome integrity in ratites and this result was expressed after counting more than 10,000 spermatozoa, which indicates that this method is a very accurate and rapid method for analysing multiple parameters and alternative to conventional methods of semen evaluation.

2 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

042427   SHANMUGAM M, VINOTH A, RAJARAVINDRA K S, RAJKUMAR U (ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Rajendranagar-500 030, Hyderabad, Email: Shanmugam.murugesan@icar.gov.in) : Semen quality and reproductive ability of in ovo thermal manipulated roosters at different ages. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 43-5.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate higher temperature exposure during incubation on rooster semen quality at different ages. Dahlem Red breeder male chicks were obtained by hatching under normal incubation temperature (37.5 °C and 65 % relative humidity) and elevated incubation temperature (39.5 °C and 65 % relative humidity) applied for three hours during 16-18^th days of incubation. The two groups of chicks were reared till 72 weeks of age. Semen collected at 29, 39, 59 and 69 weeks of age was evaluated for different physical parameters. An artificial insemination trial was carried at 30 weeks of age. Environmental variables during the weeks of semen evaluation were used for calculation of temperature humidity index (THI). Results indicated that roosters hatched from higher incubation temperature did not produce semen of better quality compared to control roosters.

1 table, 16 ref

042426   MANOJKUMAR V, GOPI M, ROKADE J J , SHYAMKUMAR T A, PRABAKAR G , BEULAH P V , G. KOLLURI G, TYAGI J S (Avian Physiology and Reproduction Div, ICAR-Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar-243 122, UP, Email: gopsgopi72@gmail.com) : Oral administration of nucleosides improved the performance and gut health in broiler chickens. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 37-41.

A preliminary experiment was carried out with broiler chicks to assess the effect of individual nucloside bases (Adenosine, Guanosine, Cytosine and Uridine) and combination of all at the level of 0.1 % supplementation. The bases were administered orally daily for initial 14 days of age in the early morning before feeding and watering. The body weight change and feed intake were recorded at weekly. The birds were sacrificed at weekly interval to assess the intestinal digestive enzymes (amylase and lipase) activities, gross morphology and intestinal villi histometry. The body weight showed numerical increase during the second week (183, 226.5, 158.5, 185.5, 191.5 and 183.5 g respectively) of age due to supplementation but not in first week. The feed intake and feed efficiency were similar (P>0.05) among the six groups in both weeks. No significant changes in intestinal length, intestinal weight and liver weight. The intestinal enzymes amylase (280 vs 332 U/L) and lipase (98.5 vs 141.96 U/L) also showed a numerical increase in activity due to supplementation. The supplementation of combination of nucleosides improved the body weight gain and gut development in broiler

2 illus, 5 tables, 17 ref

042424   GOLE M A, MANWAR S J, KURALKAR SV, WAGHMARE SP,HAJARE S W (Post Graduate Institute of Veterinary and Animal Science, Nagpur, Email: mayugolea@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of dietary supplementation of organic acids and clove essential oil on broiler performance. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 23-30.

The present study was planned to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of clove essential oil and organic acids alone or in combinations on performance of broiler chickens. A total of 420 Vencobb-400 day old chicks were randomly distributed into 8 treatments having 3 replicates of 20 chicks each. The control group (A) received basal diet and the dietary different treatment B received basal diet supplemented with clove essential oil at the rate of 200 mg/kg, whereas, groups C, D and E received basal diet supplemented with sorbic acid, fumaric acid and propionic acid at a dose of 1 %, respectively and groups F, G and H received basal diet with combination of clove essential oil (200 mg/kg) along with sorbic acid, fumaric acid and propionic acid at a dose of 1 %, respectively. The supplementation was carried out for a period of 6 weeks. Results showed that fumaric acid and clove essential oil supplementation both singly or in combination improved the body weight, body weight gain and better feed conversion ratio of broilers without affecting the liveability. It could be concluded that, the supplementation of combination of clove essential oil with fumaric acid resulted in better performance in terms of growth in broiler chickens.

9 tables, 60 ref

042423   GOPINATH C R, MURTHY H N N, NAGARAJA C S, ISLOOR S (Poultry Science Dep, Veterinary Coll, Karnataka, Email: gopinathcr72@gmail.com) : Phenotypic characterization of indigenous chicken in Southern Karnataka, India. Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 17-22.

Indian native chicken constitutes about 38 % of total chicken and 21 % to the total meat and egg production, with no genetic selection compare to commercial counterparts. Therefore, identification and characterization of non-descript indigenous chicken is needed. Present study was taken up in some southern districts of Karnataka. Hatching eggs procured from adjoining 180 villages of Chamarajanagar, Mysore and Mandya districts were hatched and reared separately under deep litter system with standard management. Phenotypic evaluation was performed on the basis of NBAGR guidelines at 20^th week of age. Average shank length of males was ranged from 82.98±0.94 to 92.61±0.26 mm, and in females it was 72.82±0.53 to 75.76±0.65 mm and there was a significant (P<0.05) difference between different district birds. Keel length in males was ranged from 75.58±0.87 to 83.06±0.24 mm, in female it ranged from 66.14±0.52 to 68.65 mm, and birds of Chamarajanagar district had significantly (P<0.05) longer keel length. The breast angle in male birds ranged from 84.38±0.46 to 85.21±0.28 º, where as in female birds it ranged from 79.36±0.29 to 84.19±0.24, Significantly (P<0.05) wider breast angle was noticed in Mandya and Mysore district birds. In females, brown plumage followed by black was most, in males red plumage was most. The average body weight of cockerels at 20 weeks was ranged from 1250.00±28.58 to 1366.06±24.33g, in pullets it was from 997.77±22.30 to 1037.75±29.19g. The parameters studied revealed the different type of indigenous chicken available in selected districts of Karnataka.

1 illus, 4 tables, 23 ref

042422   CYRIAC S, JOSEPH L , ANITHA P , ANTONY S, VINEETHA PG (Poultry Science Dep, Veterinary and Animal Sciences Coll, Thrissur-680 651, Kerala, Email: stella@kvasu.ac.in) : Estimation of genetic parameters and response to selection for eighth week body weight in Kuttanad ducks (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus). Indian J Poult Sci 2020, 55(1), 11-5.

A selection experiment was conducted at University Poultry Farm, Mannuthy, Kerala to estimate the genetic parameters and to study the response to selection for eighth week body weight in Kuttanad ducks. One thousand and eighty-eight day-old Kuttanad ducklings procured from progressive farmers of Kerala formed the base generation (S₀ ). Based on body weight at eighth week, top ranking 150 females and 25 males were selected through individual selection method. From the 25 sire families, 979, 969 and 1610 ducklings were produced by artificial insemination in S₁ , S₂ and S₃ generation in pedigreed hatches. Body weight was recorded at 8, 10 and 12 weeks of age in each generation. Genetic parameters for body weight at 8, 10 and 12 weeks were estimated using full sib correlation method. Selection differential and response to selection were calculated for body weight at 8 weeks. The body weight was significantly (p<0.05) higher in S₃ generation at 8, 10 and 12 weeks of age. The heritability estimates for body weight at 8 weeks of age based on sire plus dam components (h² s+d) were 0.251, 0.313 and 0.243 in S₁ , S₂ and S₃ generations. High values were observed for phenotypic correlation between body weight at 8 and 10, 8 and 12, and 10 and 12 weeks of age. The genetic correlations were higher than the environmental correlations except in the sire component in S₁ generation. The expected response in S₂ and S₃ generation was 79.63 g and 66.61 g, respectively but the observed response was -24.43 g, 82.28 g and 212.66 g in S₁ , S₂ and S₃ generations. The regression coefficients indicate that higher increase in body weight per generation was obtained for body weight at 8 weeks (94 g) rather than for body weight at 10 (56 g) and 12 weeks (55 g).

5 tables, 20 ref

040613   KUMAR B, SHARMA T K, DASSANI S (Botany and Industrial Microbiology Dep, Bipin Bihari Coll, Jhansi - 284 001, Email: tirtheshk@gmail.com) : Succession of microfungi on leaf litter of Anogeissus pendula in Datia, Madhya Pradesh, India. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 419-25.

Plant-microbial interactions are recognized as important drivers of terrestrial ecosystem functioning. Colonization and decomposition of leaf litter in forest ecosystem is mostly governed by microfungi. Present study has been carried out to understand the biology and diversity of leaf litter fungi and their colonization during decomposition. After removing litter bags from pits at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120, 150, and 180 days of intervals, isolation and identification of fungi was done following serial dilution method. A total of 16 fungal species belonging to seven genera were isolated and identified from decomposed leaf litter of Anogeissus pendula. Among these three species Anogeissus pendula belonged to Zygomycota and thirteen species are belonging to Ascomycota and their anamorphs. Species namely Mucor varians, Mucor hiemalis, Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus niger Aspergillus japonicus were early colonizers and Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus nidulans, Aspergillus versicolor, Aspergillus flavipes, Geotrichum candidum, Penicillium chrysogenum, Penicillium aurantiogriseum, Trichoderma reesei Trichoderma viride Chaetomium osmoniae were regarded as late colonizers. In all stages of decomposition, fungi belonging to Ascomycota were predominant. The present investigation provides valuable information about diversity of leaf litter fungi of tropical forest.

4 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

040611   KUMARI R, KUMAR A (T.N.B. Col, Bhagalpur - 812 007, Email: akarvindkumar863@gmail.com) : Primary productivity of phytoplankton in Kosi River at Bhagalpur and Katihar District of North Bihar. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 410-3.

The primary productivity of phytoplankton in the river Kosi has been analysed both spatially and seasonally in year 2017 and 2018 at three sites. The maximum was noted during pre- monsoon season in all the study sites Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) Net Primary . Productivity (NPP) of phytoplankton varied from 11.25 g Cm^-3 day^-1 to1.35 g Cm^-3 day^-1 in the first year and 5.62 g Cm^-3 day^-1 to2.7 g Cm^-3 day^-1 in the second year of observation. The community respiration (CR) showed a systematic seasonal pattern where the maximum value was observed during pre-monsoon and minimum during winter. Respiration as of was higher in pre monsoon in 2018.The ratio between NPP per cent GPP and GPP was highest in winter and was observed higher in winter in both the years. Physico-chemical Production Respiration Ratio (P/R ratio) parameters of water were analysed concurrently. determination is a good measure of new organic Production Respiration Ratio (P/R ratio) matter created in the water body. This study provides base line information to find out influence of water quality on primary productivity.

1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

040610   KAUR G, GAUR N (Centre for Research in Rural and Industrial Development, Chandigarh - 160 019, Email: gurinderkaur1725@gmail.com) : Anthropological understanding of climate change: A review essay. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 404-9.

Anthropocene is fast developing as a concept and a theoretical paradigm and linked to climate change exigencies of today. This brought anthropos, humans, at the centre of climate change debates. Humans are being considered as the largest contributors towards the anthropos existing realities and challenges of climate change. This brings in focus the question of responsibility because anthropos is not a homogenous category and defines, it the diversity and subjectivity of this entity. Therefore, fixing the responsibility over cause and effect of climate change would not be uniform. In this focus, the present review attempts to anthropology as a discipline can contribute towards alternative present how narratives of living with climate change based on its theoretical and methodological tools that are embedded in the local everyday lives of the people.

27 ref

040588   NJOKU C, MBAH C N, NWITE J N, AGWU J O, ELOM O, IGWE T S, NDEM J U (Soil Science and Environmental Management Dep, Ebonyi State Univ, Abakaliki-Nigeria, Email: chimarco2001@yahoo.com) : Effect of slum on water quality in Abakaliki Southeastern Nigeria. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 286-9.

This research was carried out in 2016 and 2017 to determine the effects of slum on water qualities in Abakaliki Southeastern Nigeria at slums of Ogbeawusa, Orokeonuoha, Mgbukobe and Amaikeaba. Water samples were analysed for colour, conductivity, total suspended solid, total dissolved solids, total solids, pH, NO3-, Cl-, Ca hardness, Mg hardness, total hardness, Pb, Cd, Cu and Zn. Apart from total solids and Cl-, which were above the recommended standards, all the other parameters were within the acceptable standard for safe use. Furthermore, parameters were significantly higher in 2017 than 2016 indicating the possibility of these parameters to be hazardous in future. It is therefore, recommended that water sourced from tube wells under slum settlements should be treated before usage to prevent health risks.

4 tables, 13 ref

040581   SALIH W Y, HASSAN F M (Biology Dep, Baghdad Univ, Baghdad - 10071, Iraq, Email: fikrat@csw.uobaghdad.edu.iq) : Epipelion community structure in Tigris River within Baghdad city, Iraq. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 235-40.

Five sites were selected along the river within Baghdad city during November2019 to July 2019, to study the qualitative and quantitative of epipelion diatoms. A total number of 186 species of epipelic diatoms belong to 59 genera were identified. These genera are belong Bacillariophycaeae with relative abundance of (79-85.8 %), followed by Fragilariophyceae (8.61-12.7 %) and Coscinodiscophyceae (3.5-8.9 %). Temporal and spatial variations were observed. The lowest total cell number of diatoms (270 cells ×10⁴/cm³) was at site 2for Coscinodiscophyceae and the highest number (315×10⁴/cm³) at site 5 for Baciliariophyceae. Achnanthidium minutissima, Cocconies placentula, Gomphonema parvulum, Aulacoseira granulata, Nitzschia frustulum, Navicula radiosa and Ulnaria ulnawere recorded in a high cell number throughout the study period, Most abundant species belonged to Bacillariophycae which reflect the impact of pollution on water quality of the river.

2 illus, 5 tables, 25 ref

040580   KHARUMNUID W, BHARUCHA E (Bharati Vidyapeeth Institute of Environment Education and Research (BV, Katraj, Pune - 411 002, Email: Wellberibellin@gmail.com) : Management practices for biodiversity conservation through community conserved areas in Meghalaya, India. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 226-34.

Community Conserved Areas are described as natural or modified ecosystems which contain significantly high levels of biodiversity, provide ecological services, and preserve local cultural values (Upadhaya et al 2003).The purpose of this study is to document the traditional management practices for preserving biodiversity in their community conserved areas. Four villages in Khasi Hills District have been studied to understand the strategies used for managing their Community Conserved Areas. The study is based on observations of the ecological values of the groves, questionnaires and open ended interviews with key informants of the traditional management practices related to sacred groves and Other Effective (area based)Conservation Measures in these villages. Data are store and analysed in Excel and represented as graphs. The conservation efforts by communities include continuation of traditional management methods that lead to sustainable use practices, or where these traditions have been recently revived. The local people have been developed through long-term trial and experiments, an elaborate, functional and generally democratic system of conservation and management of forests and associated natural ecosystems.

4 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

040579   UMADEVI M, DEVANAND P S, KUMARAN K (Forest Coll and Research Institute, Mettupalayam - 642 110, Email: umadevitnau@gmail.com) : Characterization of grain amaranth genetic resources for agro-morphological traits. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 221-5.

A study to assess the variation among 125 grain amaranth accessions using six morphological characters was conducted. Based on per se performance, the promising genotypes of grain amaranth viz.,KBGA10, KBGA11, Durga, VLC 44, SKGPA 63, IC 32186, IC35642, SKGPA65, SKGPA64, Durga, SKGPA81, BGA2, VLC 44 and KBGA10 were found superior over the checks under comparison (suvarna and annapoorna) for yield and yield contributing traits. Multivariate analysis of phenotypic characters showed the first three principal components contributed 72.74 % of observed variability amongst the 125 lines with the eigenvalue >1 and PC1 accounted for 35.84 % of the total morphological variation for the traits. Seed volume weight had negative values for the three components (PC 3, 4 and 6) but contributes to the V ^th component with highest positive value (0.724).The results will help researchers and breeders to understand, utilize, conserve, and manage the collection for more efficient contribution to amaranth research and cultivation.

2 illus, 4 tables, 16 ref

040560   ANURADHA, GOYAL R K, SINDHU S S, GODARA A K (Microbiology Dep, Choudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar - 125 004, Email: anuradha2917@gmail.com) : Effect of rhizobacterium on growth, yield and quality of strawberry. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 92-5.

The present investigation was carried out to study the co-inoculation effect of effective rhizospheric bacteria on growth, yield and quality of strawberry cv. Chandler during the year 2017-18. The strawberry plants were treated with rhizospheric bacteria i.e. Pseudomonas strains namely, CP109 and CPS67 and Bacillus strains namely HCA61, RCA3 and SYB101, whereas untreated soil served as control. The growth, yield and quality of fruits were significantly influenced by rhizospheric bacteria. Among different treatment, treatment T₄ (CP109 + HCA61) recorded the significantly highest fruit yield per plant (257.92 g). The growth parameters, viz. plant height (14.11 cm), number of leaves per plant (12.34), crown diameter (13.21 mm), fresh weight (45.89 g) and dry weight(13.11 g) of plant maximum in treatment combination CP109+ HCA61,whereas the bacterial inoculations did not affect plant spread, fruit weight, fruit size and moisture content % in strawberry. However, with respect to TSS (%), Ascorbic acid and anthocyanin content (mg 100 g^-1) of fruits Bacillus HCA61+ Pseudomonas CP109 was found best. The co-inoculation with Bacillus and Pseudomonas strains could be an ecofriendly and cost effective technology for improving the growth, yield and quality of strawberry.

3 tables, 13 ref

040554   DINESH, BHAT M A, SAHOO J, SHARMA M K (Soil Science Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar - 125 004, Email: dineshtomarhau@gmail.com) : Vertical distribution of nutrients vis-a-vis soil properties in different geomorphic units of North-Eastern Haryana, India. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 58-67.

The profile distribution of primary nutrients (N, P and K) and diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA) extractable micronutrients (Zn, Mn, Cu and Fe) was investigated in soils developed on different geomorphic units of north-eastern Haryana, India. The soils exhibited a gradual fining of texture from Shivalik hills to flood plains. By and large, the soils were slightly acidic to strongly alkaline and calcareous. The macro and micronutrients irrespective of the geomorphic unit were higher in surface horizons than subsurface horizons. However, none of the micronutrients exhibited any systematic pattern of distribution with depth on different geomorphic surfaces. Contents of all micronutrients were higher in fine-textured as compared to coarse-textured soils. Soil pH, organic matter, calcium carbonate and size fractions had strong influence on the distribution of extractable micronutrients. Based on linear coefficients of correlation, DTPA-extractable micronutrients increased with increase in organic carbon and clay content and decreased with increase in pH and CaCO content. Organic carbon was 3 significantly and positively correlated with N, P, K and micronutrients except Zn. The use of principal component analysis (PCA) in the present study effectively reduced fifteen variables to five principal components and described 73.29 % of the original variance. Among all the soil properties organic carbon had prominent effect on distribution of micronutrients.

7 illus, 5 tables, 49 ref

040544   NANDAL A, KAUSHIK N, YADAV S S, SINGH A S R N, GULIA S S (Botany Dep, Maharshi Dayanand Univ, Rohtak-124 001, Email: ssyadavindia@gmail.com) : Water quality assessment of pond water of Kalanaur block, Rohtak, Haryana. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 1-6.

Various physico-chemical characters of pond water of selected villages of Kalanaur block of Rohtak district in Haryana were compared with WHO and Indian standards. Most of the samples were highly polluted due to higher values of conductivity, turbidity, TDS and dissolved ions and were out of the permissible limits. The results suggested that the water quality of these freshwater bodies is rapidly declining. Regularly updating the data on pond water and appointment of pond managers can help to conserve these freshwater ecosystems.

4 tables, 35 ref

040536   SU X, LIU Y, LIU Y, MA C (Dermatology Dep, Fourth Military Medical Univ, Shanxi Province 710032, China, Email: macuiling@fmmu.edu.cn) : A retrospective study: Clinicopathological and immunohistochemical analysis of 54 cases of tufted angioma. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2020, 86(1), 24-32.

Tufted angioma is a rare benign lesion with vascular proliferation. To retrospectively analyze the clinicopathological manifestations and immunohistochemical features of tufted angioma. Clinical and histopathological features of tufted angioma (n = 54) were evaluated and analyzed retrospectively in the Department of Dermatology, Xijing Hospital from 2003 to 2014. Clinically, tufted angioma usually presented as erythematous plaques and papules on the head and neck (n = 11), trunk (n = 21) and extremities (n = 22), mainly in children (n = 48), without gender difference (24 males and 30 females). A total of 45 cases showed solitary lesions and nine cases showed multiple lesions. Common symptoms included pain (n = 11), tenderness (n = 7), itching (n = 1), hypertrichosis (n = 7), hyperhidrosis (n = 6) and Kasabach–Merritt phenomenon (n = 1). Histopathologically, typical tufted angioma (n = 37) showed proliferation of endothelial cells in a so-called cannonball pattern, while in the early (n = 4) and regressed (n = 13) stages the tufted appearance was not prominent. The proliferated endothelial cells were diffusely positive for CD31 and Wilms tumor 1, focally positive for D2-40 and Prox1, and negative for Glut-1. Our research was confined to patients of Chinese origin and our sample size was limited. Tufted angioma is a rare vascular neoplasm with diverse clinical manifestations and unique pathological features. It should be recognized as a vascular tumor with lymphatic differentiation. We emphasize the importance of considering tufted angioma in the differential diagnoses of any congenital or acquired vascular tumor.

6 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

040532   SATHYANATH M S, KUNDAPUR R (Community Medicine Dep, AJ Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Mangalore, Karnataka, Email: siyasaidr@gmail.com) : Epidemiological correlates of psychological distress in a rural community of south India: A cross sectional study. Indian J Community Med 2020, 45(2), 240-3.

Integration of mental health into primary care is essential to establish access to mental health services. Screening the community for psychological distress is the first step. The aim of the study was to estimate the burden and the determinants of psychological distress in a rural community. This was a community‑based cross‑sectional study among adult members of a rural community of Nitte Village in Udupi district in Karnataka, South India. Three hundred and ten households were surveyed using the World Health Organization Self‑Reported Questionnaire (SRQ). A cutoff value of 8 in SRQ was taken as screening positive. Descriptive data were analyzed in proportions, whereas Chi‑square test and regression analysis were used to explore associations. Hypertension and diabetes were the two common comorbidities. The prevalence of psychological distress was 42.4 per thousand. “Being easily tired” and “feeling tired all the time” were the two most common responses out of the SRQ checklist. Distress was significantly associated with gender, educational status, and marital status. The prevalence of psychological distress was 42.4 per thousand, and somatic complaints were common presentations of distress in the study population.

1 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

040516   VARGHESE S M, KOSHY M, SHEEJA A L (Biochemistry Dep, Believers Church Medical Coll, Thiruvalla - 689 103, Kerala, Email: manjukoshy14@yahoo.in) : A case–control study on the role of deer fly in the transmission of hepatitis b in Kerala, South India. Indian J Community Med 2020, 45(2), 164-7.

The sudden increase in the number of Hepatitis B‑positive cases between December 2018 and June 2019, in Pathanamthitta District of Kerala in South India, aroused fear both among the government and the people. Some earlier studies postulated that deer flies act as vectors for the transmission of Hepatitis B. Deer flies were found to be in plenty in the concerned area and their bite was also considered part and parcel of everyday life. Hence, it was considered necessary to prove whether deer flies played a role in the transmission of Hepatitis B. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of deer fly in the transmission of Hepatitis B. A case–control study design was adopted to test the hypothesis concerning the possible role of deerfly in disease transmission. Cases were those who were picked up by the routine surveillance system (Integrated Disease Surveillance Project) and found to be positive for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Controls were age‑ (±5 years) and gender‑matched neighborhood individuals negative for HBsAg. Data was collected with the help of a pretested interview schedule. There was no significant association between bite of deer flies and acquisition of Hepatitis B. This study concluded proving the deer fly hypothesis to be false.

2 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

040509   DAS N, GHOSH A (Anthropology Dep, Visva?Bharati (A Central Univ and an Institution of National Importanc, Santiniketan - 731 235, West Bengal, Email: arnab_cu@rediffmail.com) : Psychometric validation of a nutrition knowledge questionnaire among parents of 3–6 year old asian Indian children in East Barddhaman district, West Bengal, India. Indian J Community Med 2020, 45(2), 130-4.

In India, virtually, no study was aimed to develop a psychometrically valid and reliable questionnaire to assess the nutrition knowledge and practice among parents of children aged between 3 and 6 years. The present study describes an evaluation of validity and reliability measures in a questionnaire designed for the assessment of nutrition knowledge among parents of children participating in a study finding relationship between physical growth and development and nonverbal intelligence quotient development being undertaken in a semi‑urban area. This was a cross‑sectional school‑based reliability and validity study. This study was conducted in seven primary schools within the limits of Purba (East) Barddhaman district legislation, West Bengal, India. One hundred and thirty‑four parents of children aged 3–6 years were included in the study. The final questionnaire consisted of 32 questions that were selected on the basis of content validity. Questions included closed‑ended and multiple‑choice items which could be answered correctly by 5 %–95 % of the target population with a difficulty index of 0.33–0.87, discrimination index of 0.12–0.44, and validity index of 0.10–0.86. Internal reliability of each item as measured by Cronbach’s α of 0.87 was also significant. The test comprises basic psychometric criteria of a valid and reliable 32‑item knowledge questionnaire which further forms an instrument for measuring current scenario and interpreting changes associated with intervention work aiming improvement of dietary and nutrition knowledge‑practice in the middle‑to‑low socioeconomic community.

3 tables, 31 ref

040486   PANDIARAJAN S, EASWARAMOORTHY D, HAJARABEEVI N, KARTHIKEYAN R (Chemistry Dep, Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and B.S.Abdur Technology, Chennai - 600 048, Email: hajarabeevi@crescent.education) : Antimicrobial activity and corrosion inhibition property of Schiff bases derived from Imidazole. Indian J Chem Technol 2020, 27(4), 311-8.

Schiff base ligands such as methyl 4-[(2-butyl-4-chloro-5-formyl-1H-imidazol-1-yl)methyl]benzoate thiosemicarbazone (L₁) and 2-butyl-4-chloro-5-formylimidazole 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrzone (L₂) are designed and synthesized via the reaction between methyl 4-[(2-butyl-4-chloro-5-formyl-1H-imidazol-1-yl)methyl]benzoate & thiosemicarbazide for L₁and 2-butyl-4-chloro-5-formylimidazole & 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine for L₂.Schiff bases are characterized by FT-IR, UV-visible, mass spectrometry,¹H and ¹³C-NMR spectral studies. These ligands are individually tested for their antimicrobial activities for both gram positive and gram negative to examine their inhibition potential by well diffusion method. The corrosion inhibition property of all the three ligands L₁, L₂ & L₃ on mild steel in 0.5 N HCl solution has been investigated at different concentrations and different temperatures by weight loss method. The biological activity of L₂ has shown better activity against gram negative bacteria such as E-coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and gram positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus when compared to standard ligand L₃. All the three ligands exhibit good corrosion inhibition property on mild steel in 0.5N HCl solution even at 0.1% concentration level and the rate of corrosion of mild steel is increased with increase of temperature of corrosion medium.

2 illus, 3 tables, 39 ref

040484   PARAMJEET K M, BHASIN S, DUBEY A, NAGAR H, SHARMA D (Chemical Sciences Dep, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Coll of Professional Sciences, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Email: dipaksharma07@yahoo.com) : One-pot synthesis of coumarin derivatives via microwave assisted Pechmann reaction and biological activity of substituted coumarin derivatives. Indian J Chem Technol 2020, 27(2), 166-73.

Pechmann reaction is mainly used for the synthesis of substituted coumarins as it can be executed with straight forward primary resources and gives coumarin derivatives with excellent yields. In the present work coumarin derivatives have been synthesized by condensation of β-ketoesters and substituted phenols under microwave irradiation in solvent free condition in which oxalic acid is used as catalyst. Oxalic acid is found to be a potential environment friendly catalyst for synthesis of coumarins. The new method of synthesis described here offers a number of advantages of being convenient, safe, gentle, shorter reaction time, high yield, and cleanness as compared to the conventional methods. The synthesized compounds have been systematically characterized by IR and MS analyses. All products are examined for antimicrobial activity against the Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and Gram negative (Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi) bacteria and antifungal activity against two fungal species (Aspergillus sp. and Fusarium graminearum). All the compounds inhibited the growth of bacteria as well as fungi.

8 illus, 4 tables, 30 ref

040463   SEKHRI I, CHANDRA M, KAUR G, NARANG D, ARORA A K (Veterinary Microbiology Dep, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Ludhiana - 141 004, Email: drmuditchandra@rediffmail.com) : Development of a multiplex PCR for the identification of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Streptococcus agalactiae in milk. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(2), 125-30.

In the dairy industry financial losses mainly due to loss of milk production caused by mastitis and mastitis related problems is very common. In the mastitis, identification of the infectious agent/s could be of great help. In the present study, a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify five common organisms implicated in the mastitis was tried. Primers for identification of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus agalactiae were selected/ designed. DNA was extracted from the affected milk using two different methods and was subjected to multiplex PCR. It was observed from the study that a multiplex PCR to amplify four organisms E. coli, K. pneumoniae, S. agalactiae and P. aeruginosa was developed successfully to quicken the detection of common mastitis causing organisms.

1 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

040462   PATHAK P, MUKHERJEE A, MUMTAZ S, KUMAR S (Animal Genetics and Breeding Div, ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana – 132 001, Email: prajwalitapathak@gmail.com) : Relationship between polymorphisms of leptin gene with growth, fertility and milk production traits in Sahiwal cows. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(2), 118-24.

The present study investigated the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in leptin gene with various economic traits (body weight at different age, first lactation reproduction and production traits) in Sahiwal cows. In order to detect genetic variants in intron 2 (422 bp), exon 2 (94 bp) and two regions of exon 3 (331 and 317 bp) of leptin, polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method was used and revealed two transitions at positions T93262901C of intron 2 and C93263979T of exon 3. General linear model (GLM) analysis revealed significant association of T93262901C SNP with weight at first service (WFS), weight at first calving (WFC), first service period (FSP), first calving interval (FCI) and FL305DMY while SNP C93263979T was found to be significantly associated with birth weight (wt), 30 months wt, AFS and AFC. The investigation indicated that heterozygous genotype had a trend for better production with optimum growth and reproduction as compared to homozygote. The present study supports that SNP in leptin gene can be used as an aid to selection for improving different economic traits in Sahiwal cows.

1 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

040453   AGRAWAL D G, SANDHU S S (Biological Science Dep, Rani Durgabati Univ, Jabalpur, 482001, Madhya Pradesh, Email: diva.gupta81@gmail.com) : Antibacterial and fibrinolytic potential of Himalayan soft gold mushroom Cordyceps sinensis. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(1), 38-44.

The medicinal mushroom Cordyceps sinensis collected from Himalayan region of India was found to have bioactive compounds. The mycelia free culture filtrate obtained from fermentation of Cordyceps mycelia were partially purified by solvent-solvent extractions. The subsequent fractions were tested for their potential regarding antibacterial and fibrinolytic activity. The butanolic fraction and aqueous layer showed significant antibacterial activity against six bacterial strains.While the final aqueous layer and hexane fraction showed partial fibrin lytic capacity in comparison with commercially available streptokinase as a positive control. It was assumed that the metabolite fractions when purified further can act as good antibacterial and fibrinolytic agents.

4 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

040452   SARKARA G, SUTHINDHIRAN K (Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore-632014, Tamil Nadu, Email: sudhindhira@gmail.com) : Identification of urease producing Virgibacillus sp. UR1 from marine sediments. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(1), 28-37.

Urease producing bacteria have been reported from various ecosystems including soil, water and host organisms such as humans and animals. This research describes the isolation and identification of ureolytic bacteria from calcium rich marine sediments of southern India. The potential strain was designated as UR1 and identified using polyphasic taxonomy. The results show that the strain belongs to the genus Virgibacillus and is closely related to the genus Bacillus. Further, the urease was extracted by 80 % acetone precipitation method and the molecular weight was determined as ~80 kDA by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of the urease in comparison with standard indicates that the isolated enzyme is urease. The enzyme exhibited the maximum activity at the temperature of 45^oC and pH of 9. Furthermore, the crude enzyme exhibited notable calcite precipitation signifying that the strain could be used for microbial induced calcite precipitation (MICP) and subsequently for biocementation process.

9 illus, 4 tables, 51 ref

040448   MALLYA H N, VARASHREE B S, SHENOY R P, BHATKALKAR S N (Biochemistry Dep, Kasturba Medical Coll, Manipal - 576 104, Karnataka, Email: varashree.bs@manipal.edu) : Correlation of serum fructosamine, erythrocyte Na⁺ -K⁺ ATPase and glutathione peroxidase with HbA1c levels. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2020, 57(3), 334-8.

Glycated hemoglobin is the frequently used test in the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. However, because this test is affected by various factors and may not be accurate for patients of certain health conditions, the present study aims to explore the association between potential and cost-effective markers like serum Fructosamine, Erythrocyte Na⁺ -K⁺ ATPase, and Glutathione peroxidase with altering levels of established marker HbA1c (Glycated haemoglobin). The study showed that serum Fructosamine has a statistically significant (P = <0.0001) association with increasing levels of HbA1c as well as blood glucose. There was a 100 % sensitivity and specificity for serum fructosamine test against HbA1c in ROC analysis, however, the erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase and erythrocyte membrane Na⁺ -K⁺ ATPase activity was not affected by increasing HbA1c levels.

4 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

040447   SUBUDHI S, SETHI D, PATTANAYAK S K (Natural Resource Management Dep, Forestry Coll, Bhubaneswar - 751 003, Odisha) : Characterization of Rhizobium sp (SAR-5) isolated from root nodule of Acacia mangium L.. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 57(3), 327-33.

The use of efficient strain of Rhizobium is of prime importance for optimum N2 harvest through legumes. The present investigation on microsymbiont associated with root nodulation of Acacia mangium L., an important forest species having wider adaptability. Certain biochemical and molecular techniques were used to characterize the microsymbiont. The 16S rRNA sequence was submitted to NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) with an assigned accession number as MH 661260 (SAR-5). The dendrogram revealed that the strain MH 661260 (SAR-5) was Rhizobium alamii, exhibiting maximum similarity with Rhizobium mesosinicum strain: NR 043548. The maximum indole acetic acid (89.00 μg/mL) was produced by metabolizing glucose followed by fructose (70.4 μg/mL), mannitol (55.8 μg/mL), lactose (51.4 μg/mL), sucrose (46.2 μg/mL), starch (39.6 μg/mL), galactose (30.6 μg/mL) and maltose (26.4 μg/mL) and the least (16.5 μg/mL) was recorded in control. The plateau stage of growth was attained after 36 h of inoculation, but the exopolysaccharides (EPS) production was the highest (112 μg/mL) at 48 h after inoculation, thereafter reduced in yeast extract mineral medium. The most preferable carbon, nitrogen, and vitamin for EPS production were maltose, L-asparagine, and L-ascorbic acid, respectively and the least preferable were sucrose, KNO₃ , and riboflavin, respectively. The isolate (SAR-5) could survive in the pH range of 6 to 8 and the salinity level up to 3 % NaCl in laboratory conditions.

7 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

040443   SEMERCI A B, ?NCEÇAYIR D, KONCA T, TUNCA H, TUNC K (Biology Dep, Sakarya Univ, Sakarya-54300, Turkey, Email: alicannn5434@gmail.com) : Phenolic constituents, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of methanolic extracts of some female cones of gymnosperm plant. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 57(3), 298-303.

In the present study, the total antioxidant activity, the total phenolic content, and the antimicrobial activity of methanol extracts obtained from the female cones of Pinus brutia, Pinus nigra, Cupressus sempervirens L., Thuja orientalis L., and Cedrus libani were evaluated. The in vitro total phenolic content, the antioxidant, and the antimicrobial activities were determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu reaction, the DPPH radical scavenging assay and the disc diffusion method, respectively. The results of the present study showed that the extracts of the female cones prepared in methanol had the antimicrobial activity against the test microorganisms and the highest antimicrobial effect was observed against Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis. The total phenolic constituents of the extracts were determined to be in the ranges from 69 to 220 mg GA/100 g. All extracts exhibited antioxidant activity with concentrations necessary to inhibit the activity of DPPH radical by 50 % (IC₅₀) ranging from 0.35 to 17.21 µg/mL. The results indicate that the extracts of the cones exhibit acceptable antioxidant and antimicrobial activities and suggest that these cones’ extracts may serve as a potential source of natural antioxidants and antimicrobials for food or medical purposes.

2 tables, 51 ref