044526   JEET S, TABASSUM S, KUMAR R, DEV C M (Genetic Resources and Agro-technology Div, CSIR- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu- 180 001, J&K, Email: sabhajeet@iiim.ac.in) : Yield and economics of aerobic direct seeded upland rice (Oryza sativa L.) as affected by different weed control measures under rice-wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) system. J Crop Weed 2020, 16(1), 88-93.

Field trial/ on farm trials (OFT) was carried out on farmer’s field at Atnauwan, Hasanchak and Agwanpur associated with the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Barh, Patna, Bihar in the two consecutive year 2014-15 and 2015-16 during the kharif season. The trial was conducted in randomized complete block design replicated 04 times (Four no of farmers)with 07 treatments. The treatments were composed of application of 2,4-D @ 1.0 kg a. i. ha^-1 at 25 days after sowing, Pendimethalin1.00 kg a.i. ha^-1 at 1-3 days after sowing, Pyrazosulfuron@ 200 g ha^-1 at 20-25 days after sowing, Bispyribac Sodium @ 200 g ha^-1 at 20-25 days after aftersowing,combined application of Pyrazosulfuron@ 200 g ha^-1 + Bispyribac Sodium @ 200 g at 20-25 days after sowing, weed free (Farmer practices) and weedy check. During the trial period various growth and yield attributes were recorded. Grassy weeds, broad leaf weeds and sedges were observed during the crop growth period. Combined application of Pyrazosulfuron @ 200 g ha^-1+ Bispyribac Sodium @ 200 g at 20-25 days after sowing proved most efficient in controlling weeds with 95.9 % weed control efficiency (WCE). Maximum plant height (cm), more number of effective tillers/m²,higher panicle length (cm), less weed dry weight both grassy and broad leaf weight (g), highest grain (65.0 q ha^-1) and straw(110.0 q ha^-1) yield were recorded under weed free plot (Farmer practices). Among the herbicides treatments, combined application of Pyrazosulfuron @ 200g ha¹ + Bispyribac Sodium @ 200 g ha^-1at 25 days after sowingfound highest grain yield (62.2 q ha^-1), net return (Rs. 65,862.0 ha^-1) and B:C ratio (2.8) as compared to other herbicides treatments. The significantly lowest growth parameters, yield attributes, yield economics were recorded under weedy check.

3 tables, 17 ref

044525   KISKU P, SAHU S, SALMA U, RAY S S, SAHA P, KUNDU S, ALI M N (Agricultural Biotechnology Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia- 741 252, Email: nasimali2007@gmail.com) : Encapsulation-dehydration based cryopreservation of Rauwolfia shoot tips and their regeneration potential in vitro. J Crop Weed 2020, 16(1), 82-7.

The glory of R.serpentine has faced its alarming stage due to over exploitation of natural resource by the pharmaceutical industries. Hence a conservation approach is necessary to keep them alive in nature. Cryopreservation of synthetic seed based approach of in vitro conservation is most convenient and safe method for long term germplasm conservation. For this reason, an in vitro germplasm conservation method through encapsulation dehydration followed by cryopreservation has been developed for this plant using the shoot tip as explants. The optimal dose of sucrose during preculture of encapsulated seeds and the dehydration duration using laminar airflow has been tested during experiment. During dehydration, moisture content was found least after 7 hours of dehydration (6.78±0.93). After cryopreservation, maximum responses of seeds were recorded for pre-treatment at 0.3 M sucrose followed by 9 hours dehydration and 0.5 M sucrose followed by 7 hours dehydration respectively. Addition of RAPD based approach suggested there was no variation between the mother plant and cryopreserved plant after regeneration.

2 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

044523   MULA G, SARKER S C, MONDAL S (Agricultural Extension Dep, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Cooch Behar - 736165, West Bengal, Email: gobindamula@gmail.com ) : Economics of agribusiness in arecanut processing – an analytical study in Terai Zone of West Bengal. J Crop Weed 2020, 16(1), 66-77.

The study assessed the economic opportunities in agribusiness of arecanut processing based on primary data collected from 190 processing units from three districts of Terai zone of West Bengal. Both PRA and survey methods were adopted for data collection. The investigation revealed that 77.37 % processing units were run by the owners using own land and 63.68 % of processing units remained under single ownership. An average fixed investment of ` 96595.00 was needed for establishment of a standard arecanut processing unit having capacity of processing 715 qtls raw arecanut. The processing activities are done in two phase viz. early season from Mid-November to Mid-April for the preparation of Tipni, Rota (Red), Rota (white), Sagar etc. grades and late season starting from Mid-April to Mid-June to produce Maza, Fali and Mala grades. In early season, from the processing 625 qtls of green arecanut, 69.825 qtls processed products was obtained of which 43.25 % Tipni, 30.04 % Rota, 14.21 % Sagar and 12.50 % other grade. The net return was examined to be highest for Sagar grade (` 9977.71 q^-1) followed by White Rota (` 7577.17 q<sup>-1</sup>.) with a benefit-cost ratio of 1.56:1 and 1.43:1 respectively and in late season, the Maza grade hold benefit of ¹ 1983.50/qtl and for Mala it was ` 5991.48 q-1 The average annual net return of such unit was estimated of ` 472760.38 with B: C of 1.30:1 and could generate employment of 1080.50 mandays. The said agribusiness activity may be taken as an important livelihood options for successful entrepreneurship development particularly in group approach. 

7 tables, 13 ref

044522   BASAK J S, SAHA M, ROY M, MALLICK P, BISWAS T, SAHU P K (Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur- 741252, Nadia, Email: jitbasak9@gmail.com) : Dummy variable regression to compare and post GST condition of handloom weavers. J Crop Weed 2020, 16(1), 60-5.

GST known as Goods and Services Tax, is a type of indirect tax. In Indian economy it is a paradigm shift. Introducing in 2017 and including huge number of items and eliminate 7 indirect central and 10 indirect state tax on a single item,it increased the tax base. In it amount of tax also distributed with defined percentages within the central and state governments. As there was no tax on handloom industry, so, imposed tax on it becomes a burning topic nowadays. To examine GST effect on handloom weavers in West Bengal,an initial attempt has taken in this article as a case study using stepwise regression model with single dummy variable (Di ). From traditional weavers’ village Nasratpur situated at 23 ºN and 88 ºE, primary information from 135 handloom weavers from different groups were collected during March-April, 2018. After GST selling prices of handloom sarees is decreasing whereas raw material cost per saree is increasing. To maintain profit margin, handloom owners are cutting down the labour wages. Moreover, the decreasing trend in sales of sarees compared to pre GST condition. Regression analysis of income from handloom on 8 independent variables reveals that the two regression lines are different in pre and post GST condition which is proved by significant of coefficient of intercept D_i  and D_i X_i4 variable. The study recommended that efforts needed to diminish raw materials cost for handloom with improving channels of marketing for selling handloom goods.

2 illus, 7 tables, 15 ref

044521   DASH S S, TRIPATHY L, SRINIVAS P (Horticulture Coll, Odisha, Email: sparkling.shine27@gmail.com) : Utilization of soft type wild jackfruit as fruit leather : A step towards economic security of the tribal women in Odisha. J Crop Weed 2020, 16(1), 56-9.

The present study was carried out in the Laboratory of OUAT (Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology) and Central Horticulture Experiment Station (ICAR-IIHR), Bhubaneswar during the year 2017-2018.The protocol of leather from soft type Jackfruit was standardized and the chemical analysis was done from the collected samples from different districts and results suggested that Khurda district sample have highest TSS value (15.4 °Brix) and Gajapati district sample has highest acidity (1.6 %). Ascorbic acid content was highest in Ganjam (15.38 mg) and Gajapati district (15.36 mg). The pH value and moisture content was highest value (pH 5.7) in Khurda and Kandhamal (40 %), respectively. Mould count was highest for Kandhamala sample 2.51x105 cfu and minimum in Khurda sample 0.36x105 cfu. Organoleptic characters like colour, appearance, flavour, texture, taste and overall acceptability depicts that the sample1 (sun-dried) gives more excellent result than others, followed by sample38 (sun-dried + microwave) and sample44 (microwave). Among the packaging options, it was observed that the butter paper and aluminium foil unwrapping was quicker than cling film and butter paper packing. Both butter paper and aluminium packaging were appealing to the respondents as compared to cling film packed and open samples. The present study successfully established the viability of preparation of leather from soft type jackfruit, which is abundantly available in Odisha, paving way for creating another avenue for income generation in tribal regions of the State.

2 illus, 5 tables, 11 ref

044520   SARKAR A, SHARANGI A B, SOUJANNYA S, DATTA A (Plantation Dep, Bidhan Chandra KrishiViswavidyalaya, Mohanpur - 741 252, West Bengal, Email: absharangi@gmail.com) : Seed yield and quality of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) as influenced by seed priming. J Crop Weed 2020, 16(1), 51-5.

Seed priming, a controlled hydration process, is a simple and cheap technology to the farmers for better germination of seed ensuring a good yield and quality.An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of different priming media, and duration on seed germination, growth, yield and essential oil content of coriander at the Horticultural Research Station, Mondouri, West Bengal.There werethreedifferent concentrations of chemical (KH2 PO4 ) viz., 3-, 2-,1% and control (distilled water) with three different duration of soaking viz., 12-, - 16- and 20 hrs.Seed priming with KH2 PO4  has significant influence on plant height of coriander.Maximum number of primary branches per plant (7.0), number of secondary branches per plant (12.3), maximum germination (91 %), were recorded with 1 % KH₂ PO₄  for 20 hrs. 3% KH₂PO₄  for 12 hrs was found to produce maximum test weight (13.0 g),whereas, seed priming with 1 % KH₂ PO₄  for 20 hrs out-yielded all other treatments resulting in the highest number of umbels per plant (23.3),umbellets per umbel (5.7), seed per umbel (38.4), seed yield per plant (3.5 g), seed yield per meter square (15.0 g), projected seed yield (13.5 q ha-1), respectively.It may be concluded from the results that to obtain higher germination, seed yield and essential oil of coriander, seeds should be treated with 2 % KH2 PO4  as seed priming chemical for 20 hrsunder this Gangetic alluvial region as revealed from the result.

6 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

044519   BEGUM S, REDDY V R, SRINIVAS B, ARUNAKUMARI C (Jagtial Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural Univ, Hyderabad, Email: sameenabegum477@gmail.com) : Heterosis studies for yield and physical quality traits in hybrid rice (Oryza sativa L.). J Crop Weed 2020, 16(1), 38-50.

Forty-two hybrids of rice were developed by crossing six CMS lines and seven testers in line x tester mating design for estimation of heterosis for yield and physical quality traits. The data was collected on days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height (cm), panicle length (cm), number of productive tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle, spikelet fertility percentage (%),1000- grain weight (g), grain yield per plant (g), hulling percentage, milling percentage, head rice recovery percentage, kernel length (mm), kernel breadth (mm), kernel L/B ratio, paddy length (mm), paddy breadth (mm) and paddy L/B ratio.The analysis of variance (line x tester) revealed significant differences among genotypes for all the characters studied. The hybrids JMS 19A X JR 80, JMS 19A X JBR 6, JMS 19A X JR 83, JMS 19A X JR 67 and CMS 64A X JMBR 44 recorded high grain yield per plant and had higher percentage of relative heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis for majority of the traits. Testing of these hybrids in multilocation trials across different states of the country may result in the identification of better hybrids in the near future for commercial exploitation.

2 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

044518   NAGAR S S, KUMAR P, SINGH G, GUPTA V, SINGH C, TYAGI B S (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Narendra Deva Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Faizabad- 224229, Email: jitendrashivran@gmail.com) : Assessing gene action utilizing Hayman’s graphical approach in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). J Crop Weed 2020, 16(1), 29-37.

A study was conducted for the assessment of gene action involved in the expression of different yield components in bread wheat by using the Hayman’s graphical approach. The significant additive variance (D) and dominance variance (H1 ) indicated that, expression of these traits is controlled by both additive and non-additive gene action. Among the parents, there was asymmetrical distribution of positive and negative dominant genes and preponderance of over-dominance type of gene action for all the studied traits in both F₁  and F₂  generations. Graphical regression analysis for days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, plant height, effective tillers plant-1, grain number spike-1, 1000-grain weight and grain yield showed negative intercepts of Wr-Vr regression line, indicating over-dominance type of gene action, therefore selection should be delayed to later generations for these traits. The cultivar DBW 14 for grain yield and NW 2036 for days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, plant height and effective tillers plant-1 contain maximum dominant genes in both F₁  and F₂ generations, therefore these cultivars could be used as donors in wheat breeding programme. Based on the specific combining ability effects the cross PBW343 × K8962 identified to be a superior candidate for 1000- grain weight and grain yield in F₁  generation. Therefore, it is suggested that present findings may be useful in formulating future breeding programme to develop high yielding wheat genotypes.

2 tables, 15 ref

044517   DAS S K, SARKAR A, TARAFDAR J K, CHAKRABORTY A (Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani - 741235, West Bengal, Email: sanjibag@gmail.com ) : Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) seed tuber production as influenced by intra-row spacing, dehaulming time and nutrient management in lower Indo-Gangetic plains of India. J Crop Weed 2020, 16(1), 20-8.

For successful potato cultivation virus free quality planting material is the prime input, which accounts for nearly 40-50 % of the total cost of cultivation. Field experiments were conducted during rabi seasons of 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19 at BCKV, Kalyani, WB, India to determine the effects of intra-row spacing, dehaulming time and nutrient management on potato seed tuber production in lower Indo-Gangetic plains of India following seed plot technique. The experiment was laid out in a split split plot design with three replications having twelve treatment combinations viz. Main plot: intra row spacing 2 levels, sub plot: dehaulming time 2 levels and sub sub plot: nutrient management 3 levels. The results showed that with reduction in intra row spacing from 20 to 15cm, dehaulming at 65 DAP and decrease in nutrient levels from 100 % RD of NPK to 50 % RD of NPK seed grade size (< 75g) tuber yield and numbers and total tuber numbers were increased significantly. Intrarow plant spacing and nutrient levels had a marked effect on disease incidence and intensity. Haulm cutting at 65 days after planting was found to be safer considering the aphid population build up and transmission of viral disease through it. It was found from the indexing of the viruses in the tubers of Kufri Himalini (breeder seed and produced seed tuber) the seeds were free from PVY, PVX, PVS, PVM and PVLRV. The highest net return and B : C ratio (4.08) was obtained with 15 cm intra row spacing, dehaulming at 65 DAP and 50 % RDF of NPK + 0.1 % boric acid as foliar application at 40, 50 and 60 DAP followed by B : C ratio (3.99) with 15 cm intra row spacing, dehaulming at 75 DAP and 50 % of RDF of NPK + 0.1 % boric acid as foliar application at 40, 50 and 60 DAP.

3 illus, 10 tables, 14 ref

044516   SONI J K, CHOUDHARY V K, SINGH P K, HOTA S (ICAR-Directorate of Weed Research, Jabalpur- 482 004, Madhya Pradesh, Email: jeetendra.soni@icar.gov.in) : Weed management in conservation agriculture, its issues and adoption : A review. J Crop Weed 2020, 16(1), 9-19.

Conventional agriculture is tillage driven system that increases the cost of crop production, accelerates soil erosion and contributes towards climate change.These difficulties in conventional agriculture demands shift in agriculture system,and conservation agriculture (CA)become the best feasible option. CA is becoming popular as it brings sustainability of the production system without compromising crop and soil productivity. CA is based on three pillars viz., minimal mechanical tillage, permanent residue cover on the soil and crop diversification. However, adoption of CA, influences the weed population differently over conventional agriculture as tillage manipulates the weed habitat. Thus, weed management in CA possesses a great challenge for farmers. This mainly due to minimum soil disturbance resulting in most of the weed seeds remain over the top layer of soil and crop diversification brings change in weed composition. Thus shift in weed flora becomes more problematic for farmers to control it effectively under CA. In zero tillage, perennial weeds become more problematic. However, when crop residue is uniformly spread with appropriate quantity, it may suppress weed seed germination and provide a competitive advantage for crop over the weed and also help in moisture retention, lowering the soil temperature and increase in soil organic matter (SOM). Generally, the use of herbicides brings effective weed control. However, crop residue incorporation followed by the application of post-emergence herbicide is found more effective than pre-emergence herbicide.Thus under CA, herbicide efficacy depends on the time of application, formulation and quantity of application. Moreover, integrated weed management (IWM) is the best way to manage weeds effectively in an eco-friendly and cost-effective manner under CA. IWM approaches comprise crop establishment, crop rotations, use of cover crops and crop residues as mulch with a combination of pre- and post-emergence herbicides could be integrated to develop sustainable and operative weed management strategies under CA systems. However, there are some problems in the adoption of CA that are the mindset of farmers towards tillage, timely availability of improved implements, the initial purchasing power of farmers and technical knowledge.

110 ref

044515   ODONGO M R, PU L, NYANGASI K J, XIAOYAN C, ZHONGLI Z, GAYA A S, KUNBO W, FANG L (Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang- 455 000, China, Email: wkbcri@163.com) : Identification of QTLs and candidate genes for physiological traits associated with drought tolerance in cotton. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

Cotton is mainly grown for its natural fiber and edible oil. The fiber obtained from cotton is the indispensable raw material for the textile industries. The ever changing climatic condition, threatens cotton production due to a lack of sufficient water for its cultivation. Effects of drought stress are estimated to affect more than 50 % of the cotton growing regions. To elucidate the drought tolerance phenomenon in cotton, a backcross population was developed from G. tomentosum, a drought tolerant donor parent and G. hirsutum which is highly susceptible to drought stress. A genetic map of 10 888 SNP markers was developed from 200 BC₂F₂ populations. The map spanned 4 191.3 centi-Morgan (cM), with an average distance of 0.104 7 cM, covering 51 % and 49 % of At and Dt sub genomes, respectively. Thirty stable Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were detected, in which more than a half were detected in the At subgenome. Eighty-nine candidate genes were mined within the QTL regions for three traits: cell membrane stability (CMS), saturated leaf weight (SLW) and chlorophyll content. The genes had varied physiochemical properties. A majority of the genes were interrupted by introns, and only 15 genes were intronless, accounting for 17 % of the mined genes. The genes were found to be involved molecular function (MF), cellular component (CC) and biological process (BP), which are the main gene ontological (GO) functions. A number of miRNAs were detected, such as miR164, which is associated with NAC and MYB genes, with a profound role in enhancing drought tolerance in plants. Through RT-qPCR analysis, 5 genes were found to be the key genes involved in enhancing drought tolerance in cotton. Wild cotton harbors a number of favorable alleles, which can be exploited to aid in improving the narrow genetic base of the elite cotton cultivars. The detection of 30 stable QTLs and 89 candidate genes found to be contributed by the donor parent, G. tomentosum, showed the significant genes harbored by the wild progenitors which can be exploited in developing more robust cotton genotypes with diverse tolerance levels to various environmental stresses. This was the first study involving genome wide association mapping for drought tolerance traits in semi wild cotton genotypes. It offers an opportunity for future exploration of these genes in developing highly tolerant cotton cultivars to boost cotton production.

7 illus, 4 tables, 140 ref

042421   ADNAN NAIM1*, S.K. MISHRA2 AND DEBASIS NAYAK (KIIT Univ, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, Email: adnan.kiittbi@gmail.com) : Bio banking of indigenous chicken germplasm by cryo-preservation of germline potent early embryonic cells and gonadal tissues. Int J Poul Sci 2020, 55(1), 1-9.

Global climate change and sudden disease outbreaks has badly affected the genetically rich and valuable avian germplasm, including indigenous and commercial poultry lines. Native breeds of chicken are known for their characteristic features like plumage colour, immuno-competency, protein enrichment, environmental pressure resistance etc. However, these high quality and genetically diversified indigenous chicken breed germplasm is either neglected or less acknowledged by the stakeholders, therefore, these valuable breeds are at the verge of extinction. Presently, a particular poultry breed is maintained as in situ i.e. in the form of live birds, which makes them an easy target for any pathogenic outbreak, genetic drift, breeding issues and natural disasters. Bio-banking of indigenous chicken breed using novel technologies, developed in recent years, viz., cryopreservation of early embryonic cells like Blastodermal Cells (BDCs), Primordial Germ Cells (PGCs), Spermatogonial Stem Cells (SSCs) and the gonadal tissues and by creating sterile hybrids as universal recipient of early embryonic cells from different avian species is therefore, an immediate need, as these techniques offer a guarantee to safeguard the complete genetic trait of the valuable avian germplasm which can be used to reconstitute the pure line breed as per the demand in future. This paper reviews the current status and prospects of Bio-Banking of two important native chicken breeds, Kadaknath and Aseel, as models for Bio-banking by cryo-preserving the PGCs.

1 illus, 2 tables, 71 ref

044514   KUMAR S R, XIANGRU W, DINGSHA J, HENGHENG Z, HUIPING G, QIANG D, NIANCHANG P, XILING Z, MEIZHEN S (Institute of Cotton Research of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Scienc, Anyang- 455 000, China, Email: hainan1571@163.com) : Screening and evaluation of reliable traits of upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) genotypes for salt tolerance at the seedling growth stage. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

Salt stress significantly inhibits the growth, development, and productivity of cotton because of osmotic, ionic, and oxidative stresses. Therefore, the screening and development of salt tolerant cotton cultivars is a key issue towards sustainable agriculture. This study subjected 11 upland cotton genotypes at the seedling growth stage to five different salt concentrations and evaluated their salt tolerance and reliable traits. Several morpho-physiological traits were measured after 10 days of salinity treatment and the salt tolerance performance varied significantly among the tested cotton genotypes. The optimal NaCl concentration for the evaluation of salt tolerance was 200 mmol·L^{− 1} . Membership function value and salt tolerance index were used to identify the most consistent salt tolerance traits. Leaf relative water content and photosynthesis were identified as reliable indicators for salt tolerance at the seedling stage. All considered traits related to salt tolerance indices were significantly and positively correlated with each other except for malondialdehyde. Cluster heat map analysis based on the morpho-physiological salt tolerance-indices clearly discriminated the 11 cotton genotypes into three different salt tolerance clusters. Cluster I represented the salt-tolerant genotypes (Z9807, Z0228, and Z7526) whereas clusters II (Z0710, Z7514, Z1910, and Z7516) and III (Z0102, Z7780, Z9648, and Z9612) represented moderately salttolerant and salt-sensitive genotypes, respectively. A hydroponic screening system was established. Leaf relative water content and photosynthesis were identified as two reliable traits that adequately represented the salt tolerance of cotton genotypes at the seedling growth stage. Furthermore, three salt-tolerant genotypes were identified, which might be used as genetic resources for the salt-tolerance breeding of cotton.

6 illus, 3 tables, 59 ref

044513   XIANGYUE Z, ZILI F, LIHONG Z, SHICHAO L, FENG W, YONGQIANG S, HONGJIE F, HEQIN Z (Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang- 455 000, China, Email: fenghongjie@caas.cn) : Succinate dehydrogenase SDH1–1 positively regulates cotton resistance to Verticillium dahliae through a salicylic acid pathway. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

Verticillium wilt, caused by the soil-borne fungus of Verticillium dahliae Kleb., is one of the most devastating diseases of cotton. The complex mechanism underlying cotton resistance to Verticillium wilt remains uncharacterized. Identifying an endogenous resistance gene may be helpful to control this disease. Previous studies revealed that succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) is involved in reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced stress signaling pathway that is likely to be triggered by salicylic acid (SA). Here, through the metabolomics and differential expression analyses in wilt-inoculated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), we noticed that GhSDH1–1 gene in cotton may play an important role in the resistance to V. dahlia. Then we reported GhSDH1–1 gene and its functional analysis in relation to the resistance of cotton to V. dahliae. The GhSDH1–1 gene in cotton root was significantly up-regulated after V. dahlia inoculation, and its expression level peaked at 12 and 24 h post-infection. SA can also induce the up-regulation of GhSDH1–1. Additionally, the functional analysis showed that GhSDH1–1-silenced cotton was more susceptible to V. dahliae than the control because of the significant decrease in abundance of immune-related molecules and severe damage to the SA-signaling pathway. In Arabidopsis thaliana, high expression of GhSDH1–1 conferred high resistance to V. dahliae. Arabidopsis that overexpressed GhSDH1–1 had higher resistance to V. dahliae infection compared with the wild-type. Our findings provide new insights into the role of GhSDH1–1; it positively regulates cotton resistance to Verticillium wilt. The regulatory mechanism of GhSDH1–1 is closely related to SA-related signaling pathway

6 illus, 52 ref

042420   SINGH RS, BHARGAVA R , SHARMA BD (ICAR-Central Institute for Arid Horticulture, Bikaner–334 006, Rajasthan, Email: rssingh1@yahoo.com) : Diversity in seed characters for morphological characterization of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) varieties. Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 102–5.

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.; Family: Arecaceae) is a fruit tree suitable for dry and hot climatic conditions. The ripe fruits (doka or khalal) are used for fresh consumption and value addition. In India, date palm fruits are harvested during mid June to July at doka or khalal stage (hard ripe yellow, red or dark red colour) of maturity because of early rains. In many date growing countries, seed is an agricultural waste and used for several purposes. Besides raising saplings, its seed are used as feed additive for African catfish, oil extraction, cattle’s feed and porus carbon preparation. Date fruit seeds comprise 6-12 per cent of total weight in Tamer stage fruit depending upon variety and quality grade. The plants are raised through suckers, seeds, and tissue culture in date palm and variations in seeds (stones) were observed. The diversity with respect to stone weight, size, shape, colour and presence of ridges and groove were observed in date palm seeds. The seeds were collected at doka stage of maturity of fruits during 2016 from date palm germplasm repository for study. In general large, medium and small size seeds were grouped in date palm genotypes. Variation in groove like shallow, medium and deep was also noticed. In some cultivars, ridges on the seeds were also present. A significant difference in weight and size of seeds were observed in date palm genotypes. The study revealed that genetic diversity exit in seeds of date palm. A wide range of diversity was observed in seeds for morphological characterization of date palm genotypes.

1 table, 12 ref

042419   KEERTHIKA A, SHUKLA AK, GUPTA DK, MOHAMED MB N, JANGID BL, SINGH M (ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Pali Marwar–306 401, Rajasthan, Email: lathikaconifers@gmail.com) : Variability in fruit and seed parameters of Manilkara hexandra (Roxb.) dubard in Rajasthan. Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 98–101.

Exploration trips were conducted in different villages of Pali district in Rajasthan for germplasm collection of Manilkara hexandra (Roxb.) Dubard. All the parameters i.e., fruit length, fruit width, fruit weight, pulp weight, seed length and seed width varied significantly (p<0.001) except for seed weight (p=0.087). Highest coefficient of variation (CV) was recorded for pulp weight (43.54 %), followed by fruit weight (33.49 %) and seed length (19.48 %). Among the germplasm collected, the one from U1 (Utharan) area was found to be good in terms of all fruit parameters.

1 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

044512   FAN X, XIAODONG S , FANG L, CHAOYA B, SHENGYANG H, LI H, MING L (Southwest Univ, Chongqing- 400 716, China, Email: luo0424@126.com) : Membrane lipid raft organization during cotton fiber development. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

Cotton fiber is a single-celled seed trichome that originates from the ovule epidermis. It is an excellent model for studying cell elongation. Along with the elongation of cotton fiber cell, the plasma membrane is also extremely expanded. Despite progress in understanding cotton fiber cell elongation, knowledge regarding the relationship of plasma membrane in cotton fiber cell development remains elusive. Methods: The plasma membrane of cotton fiber cells was marked with a low toxic fluorescent dye, di-4- ANEPPDHQ, at different stages of development. Fluorescence images were obtained using a confocal laser scanning microscopy. Subsequently, we investigated the relationship between lipid raft activity and cotton fiber development by calculating generalized polarization (GP values) and dual-channel ratio imaging. Results: We demonstrated that the optimum dyeing conditions were treatment with 3 μmol·L− 1 di-4-ANEPPDHQ for 5 min at room temperature, and the optimal fluorescence images were obtained with 488 nm excitation and 500–580 nm and 620–720 nm dual channel emission. First, we examined lipid raft organization in the course of fiber development. The GP values were high in the fiber elongation stage (5–10 DPA, days past anthesis) and relatively low in the initial (0 DPA), secondary cell wall synthesis (20 DPA), and stable synthesis (30 DPA) stages. The GP value peaked in the 10 DPA fiber, and the value in 30 DPA fiber was the lowest. Furthermore, we examined the differences in lipid raft activity in fiber cells between the short fiber cotton mutant, Li-1, and its wild-type. The GP values of the Li-1 mutant fiber were lower than those of the wild type fiber at the elongation stage, and the GP values of 10 DPA fibers were lower than those of 5 DPA fibers in the Li-1 mutant.  We established a system for examining membrane lipid raft activity in cotton fiber cells. We verified that lipid raft activity exhibited a low-high-low change regularity during the development of cotton fiber cell, and the pattern was disrupted in the short lint fiber Li-1 mutant, suggesting that membrane lipid order and lipid raft activity are closely linked to fiber cell development

6 illus, 39 ref

042418   SHIJI PC, SIRIL EA (Botany Dep, Kerala Univ, Thiruvananthapuram–695 581, Kerala, Email: easiril@yahoo.com) : Collection and evaluation of henna (Lawsonia inermis L.) germplasm from South India. Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 94–7.

An extensive germplasm exploration survey of Lawsonia inermis was undertaken to identify superior germplasm. Morphometric evaluation showed significant (P<0.001) variation for leaf morphometric traits and lawsone content. Total leaf dry weight (99.76 g), lawsone content (21.5 mg-1 g dw) and lawsone yield/tree (2.14 g) were maximum in candidate elite plant 16, thus selected as ‘elite’ germplasm of L. inermis

1 tables, 3 ref

042417   GUIN K, SETHI S K, ARYA R K (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar–125 004, Haryana, Email: rakarayogi@gmail.com) : Studies on reproductive behavior of fifteen elite wheat genotypes in relation to hybrid development. Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 90–3.

Fifteen elite wheat genotypes viz. WH 147, WH 542, HD 2967, CBW 38, DBW 31, DBW 39, KRL 99, KRL 284, HD 2964, NIAW 1188, MP 1194, LB-PY 05-02, LBPY 05-04, RWP 206-33 and DBW 50 were screened for variation in floral characteristics viz., glume opening angle, anther size, pollen viability, filament length, and anther extrusion percentage, related to out crossing of wheat. In present study, on the basis of floral characteristics, WH 147 was identified as best pollen parent followed by DBW 50, CBW 38 and NIAW 1188.

2 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

042416   BERWAL M K, GOYAL P, CHUGH LK, KUMAR R, VART D (ICAR-Central Institute for Arid Horticulture, Bikaner–334 006, Rajasthan, Email: mkbiochem@gmail.com) : Exploiting genetic diversity for identification of protein dense seed parent in pearl millet. Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 85-9.

The present study was carried out to identify the protein dense pearl millet parental lines amongst 46 advanced inbred lines and designated B-lines (counterpart of CMS lines) during kharif 2013 & 14. Analysis of variance indicated significant differences between the tested genotypes during both the seasons. Protein content of these inbred lines varied from 8.62 (TPBL-11-109) to 16.03 % (HBL-0620) with an average value of 11.38 % and 9.92 % (HBL-94/54-1) to 15.38 % (HBL-0620), while designated B-line ranged from 11.09 % (HMS 26B) to 18.75 % (HMS 18B) with an average value of 14.56 % and 11.07 % (HMS 33B) to 17.89 % (HMS 18B) with an average value of 12.00 % grown during kharif-2013 & 14 respectively. On the basis of two years mean performance, four inbred lines and 11 designated B-lines were selected as potential parental lines with ≥13 % protein content, for development of protein rich pearl millet hybrids or composites.

4 tables, 15 ref

044511   MEEKS C D, SNIDER J L, STANLEY C, GARY H (Plant Sciences Div, Missouri Univ, MO- 63873, USA, Email: meeksc@missouri.edu) : Applying plant-based irrigation scheduling to assess water use efficiency of cotton following a high-biomass rye cover crop. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

This study addressed the potential of combining a high biomass rye winter cover crop with predawn leaf water potential (ΨPD) irrigation thresholds to increase agricultural water use efficiency (WUE) in cotton. To this end, a study was conducted near Tifton, Georgia under a manually-controlled, variable-rate lateral irrigation system using a Scholander pressure chamber approach to measure leaf water potential and impose varying irrigation scheduling treatments during the growing season. ΨPD thresholds were − 0.4 MPa (T1), − 0.5 MPa (T2), and − 0.7 MPa (T3). A winter rye cover crop or conventional tillage were utilized for T1-T3 as well. Reductions in irrigation of up to 10 % were noted in this study for the driest threshold (− 0.7 MPa) with no reduction in lint yield relative to the − 0.4 MPa and − 0.5 MPa thresholds. Drier conditions during flowering (2014) limited plant growth and node production, hastened cutout, and decreased yield and WUE relative to 2015. We conclude that ΨPD irrigation thresholds between − 0.5 MPa and − 0.7 MPa appear to be viable for use in a ΨPD scheduling system with adequate yield and WUE for cotton production in the southeastern U.S. Rye cover positively impacted water potential at certain points throughout the growing season but not yield or WUE indicating the potential for rye cover crops to improve water use efficiency should be tested under longer-term production scenarios.

8 illus, 2 tables, 39 ref

044510   JUNJUN N, DULIN Q, LILI M, YANHUI L, HEZHONG D, XIANLIANG S, XUEZHEN S (Shandong Agricultural Univ, Taian- 271 018, China, Email: xlsong@sdau.edu.cn;) : Genotypic variance in ¹³C-photosynthate partitioning and within-plant boll distribution in cotton. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

Photosynthate partitioning and within-plant boll distribution play an important role in yield formation of cotton; however, if and how they interact to mediate yield remains unclear. The objective of this study was to investigate the genotypic variance in photosynthate partitioning and within-plant boll distribution, with a focus on their interactions with regard to yield and yield components. A field experiment was conducted in the Yellow River region in China in 2017 and 2018 using a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Photosynthate partitioning of three commercial cultivars (DP 99B, Lumianyan 21 and Jimian 169), varying in yield potential, to different organs (including bolls) at early flowering, peak flowering, and peak boll-setting stages, as well as withinplant boll distribution at harvest, and their effects on yield formation were examined. Lint yield of Jimian 169 was the highest, followed by Lumianyan 21 and DP 99B. Similar differences were observed in the number of inner bolls and boll weight among the three cultivars. J169 partitioned significantly more photosynthate to the fruit and fiber than Lumianyan 21 and DP 99B and allocated over 80 % of assimilates to the inner bolls. Additionally, Lumianyan 21 allocated a higher proportion of photosynthate to bolls and fiber, with 12.5 %–17.6 % more assimilates observed in the inner bolls, than DP 99B. Genotypic variance in lint yield can be attributed to differences in the number of inner bolls and boll weight, which are affected by photosynthate partitioning. Therefore, the partitioning of photosynthate to fiber and inner bolls can be used as an important reference for cotton breeding and cultivation.

1 illus, 6 tables, 38 ref

044509   BLESSING C, NHAMO M, RANGARIRAI M (Research and Specialist Services Dep, Cotton Research Institute, Kadoma, Zimbabwe, Email: bchapepa@gmail.com) : The impact of plant density and spatial arrangement on light interception on cotton crop and seed cotton yield: An overview. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

Light attenuation within a row of crops such as cotton is influenced by canopy architecture, which is defined by size, shape and orientation of shoot components. Level of light interception causes an array of morpho-anatomical, physiological and biochemical changes. Physiological determinants of growth include light interception, light use efficiency, dry matter accumulation, duration of growth and dry matter partitioning. Maximum light utilization in cotton production can be attained by adopting cultural practices that yields optimum plant populations as they affect canopy arrangement by modifying the plant canopy components. This paper highlights the extent to which spatial arrangement and density affect light interception in cotton crops. The cotton crop branches tend to grow into the inter-row space to avoid shade. The modification of canopy components suggests a shade avoidance and competition for light. Maximum leaf area index is obtained especially at flowering stage with higher populations which depicts better yields in cotton production.

52 ref

044508   ZHIAN W, PENG W, GUANG H, JUANLI X, ANHONG Z, XIAOLI L, JIAHE W (Shanxi Agricultural Univ, Yuncheng- 044 000, China, Email: mhssjslxl@163.com) : Overexpressing rice lesion simulating disease 1-like gene (OsLOL1) in Gossypium hirsutum promotes somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

Cotton somatic embryogenesis is difficult or rarely frequent to present, which has limited gene function identification and biotechnological utility. Here, we employed a rice key somatic embryogenesis-related gene, rice lesion simulating disease 1-like gene (OsLOL1), to develop transgenic cotton callus for evaluating its function in ectopic plants. Overexpressing OsLOL1 can promote cotton callus to form embryogenic callus, not only shortening time but also increasing transition of somatic callus cells to embryogenic callus cells. And the regenerating plantlets per transgenic OsLOL1 embryogenic callus were significantly higher than those in the control transformed with empty vector. Analysis of physiological and biochemical showed that OsLOL1 can repress cotton superoxide dismutase 1 gene (GhSOD1) expression, possibly resulting in reactive oxidant species (ROS) accumulation in transgenic callus cells. And OsLOL1-overexpressed embryogenic callus exhibited higher α-amylase activity compared with the control, resulting from the promotion of OsLOL1 to cotton amylase 7 gene (GhAmy7) and GhAmy8 expression. The data showed that OsLOL1 could be used as a candidate gene to transform cotton to increase its somatic embryogenesis capacity, facilitating gene function analysis and molecular breeding in cotton.

3 illus, 2 tables, 38 ref

044507   MA L, SU Y, NIE H, CUI Y, CHENG C, IJAZ B, HUA J (China Agricultural Univ, Beijing- 100 193, China, Email: jinping_hua@cau.edu.cn) : QTL and genetic analysis controlling fiber quality traits using paternal backcross population in upland cotton. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

Genetic improvement in fiber quality is one of the main challenges for cotton breeders. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping provides a powerful approach to dissect the molecular mechanism in fiber quality traits. In present study, F₁₄ recombinant inbred line (RIL) population was backcrossed to paternal parent for a paternal backcross (BC/P) population, deriving from one upland cotton hybrid. Three repetitive BC/P field trials and one maternal backcross (BC/M) field trial were performed including both two BC populations and the original RIL population. In total, 24 novel QTLs are detected for fiber quality traits and among which 13 QTLs validated previous results. Thirty-five QTLs in BC/P populations explain 5.01 %–22.09 % of phenotype variation (PV). Among the 35 QTLs, 23 QTLs are detected in BC/P population alone. Present study provides novel alleles of male parent for fiber quality traits with positive genetic effects. Particularly, qFS-Chr3–1 explains 22.09 % of PV in BC/P population, which increaseds 0.48 cN·tex− 1 for fiber strength. A total of 7, 2, 8, 2 and 6 QTLs explain over 10.00 % of PV for fiber length, fiber uniformity, fiber strength, fiber elongation and fiber micronaire, respectively. In RIL population, six common QTLs are detected in more than one environment: qFL-Chr1–2, qFS-Chr5–1, qFS-Chr9–1, qFS-Chr21–1, qFM-Chr9–1 and qFM-Chr9–2. Two common QTLs of qFE-Chr2–2 (TMB2386-SWU12343) and qFM-Chr9–1 (NAU2873-CGR6771) explain 22.42 % and 21.91 % of PV. The region between NAU4034 and TMB1296 harbor 30 genes (379 kb) in A05 and 42 genes (49 kb) in D05 for fiber length along the QTL qFL-Chr5–1 in BC/P population, respectively. In addition, a total of 142 and 46 epistatic QTLs and QTL × environments (E-QTLs and QQEs) are identified in recombinant inbred lines in paternal backcross (RIL-P) and paternal backcross (BC/P) populations, respectively. The present studies provide informative basis for improving cotton fiber quality in different populations.

1 illus, 5 tables, 56 ref

040607   SWAMY S V S G, WESLEY B J (Post Harvest Technology Centre, Bapatla - 522 101, Email: paulgopal2003@yahoo.com) : Traditional knowledge of post-harvest crop handling by tribal farmers of Northern Andhra Pradesh. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 383-9.

The tribal communities inhabiting the agency areas of Northern Andhra Pradesh grow crops mainly that serve the food requirements besides depending on forest produce. Exploratory surveys were made to document the indigenous food grain preservation practices of these tribal farmers and the information was collected through group discussions and personal interactions with the elders of the ethnic groups. Structures made up of bamboo splits of different sizes and shapes are being used for storage of paddy and finger millet grains. The number of bamboo structures and quantity of grain stored is determined by the size of the family. Maize cobs, pigeonpea and cowpea pods are tied in bundles and suspended in the kitchen area, as the smoke keeps them away from insect pest infestation and moisture. Dried bottle gourds are most commonly used containers for storage of different grains. Finger millet grains are solar dried and processed locally by house wives and the flour is stored in earthen pots. Maize cobs are shelled manually after drying and the kernels are sold in the market or to the middlemen. Integration of these indigenous techniques of storage of food grains with modern scientific knowledge would be more economical and profitable to the tribal farmers.

13 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

044501   ZHONGHUA L, QIAN S, MINGQI X, JIAQI Y, QADIR K A, JUNYI L, XIANLONG Z, LILI T, CHUNYUAN Y (Huazhong Agricultural Univ, Wuhan- 430 070, China, Email: lilitu@mail.hzau.edu.cn) : Phenylpropanoid metabolism and pigmentation show divergent patterns between brown color and green color cottons as revealed by metabolic and gene expression analyses. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

Naturally-colored cotton has become increasingly popular because of their natural properties of coloration, UV protection, flame retardant, antibacterial activity and mildew resistance. But poor fiber quality and limited color choices are two key issues that have restricted the cultivation of naturally-colored cotton. To identify the possible pathways participating in fiber pigmentation in naturally-colored cottons, five colored cotton accessions in three different color types (with green, brown and white fiber) were chosen for a comprehensive analysis of phenylpropanoid metabolism during fiber development. The expression levels of flavonoid biosynthesis pathway genes in brown cotton fibers were significantly higher than those in white and green cotton fibers. Total flavonoids and proanthocyanidin were higher in brown cotton fibers relative to those in white and green cotton fibers, which suggested that the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway might not participate in the pigmentation of green cotton fibers. Further expression analysis indicated that the genes encoding enzymes for the synthesis of caffeic acid derivatives, lignin and lignan were activated in the developing fibers of the green cotton at 10 and 15 days post-anthesis. Our results strengthen the understanding of phenylpropanoid metabolism and pigmentation in green and brown cotton fibers, and may improve the breeding of naturally-colored cottons.

7 illus, 47 ref

040597   DHIMAN D, SHARMA R (Soil Sciences Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur - 176 061, Email: dikshadhiman394@gmail.com) : Impact of integrated nutrient management on growth, yield and nutrient uptake by wheat (Triticum aestivum). Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 324-9.

The present investigation was carried out in the on-going long-term fertilizer experiment initiated during 1972. The long-term use of optimal dose of chemical fertilizers and FYM increased the plant height (88 cm), yield attributes [effective tillers m^-1 row length (98), number of grains ear^-1(32) and test weight (49 g) and yield (grain (30.34 q ha^-1), straw (53.22q ha^-1), biological (83.56 q ha^-1) and nutrient uptake (N, P, K, Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn). The enrichment of soil with 100 per cent RDF significantly increased the plant height (66 cm), yield attributes [effective tillers m row length (71), number of grains ear^-1 (25) and test weight (41 g) and (grain (20.22 q ha^-1), straw (36.4 q ha^-1), biological (56.67 q ha^-1) yield and nutrient uptake (N, P, K, Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn) over 100 per cent NP and 100 per cent N.

3 tables, 27 ref

040595   BANOTRA M, SHARMA B C, KUMAR R (Agronomy Dep, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences &Technology, Jammu -180 009, Email: monikabanotra6@gmail.com) : Effect of differential substitution of nutrients on growth, quality and economics of basmati rice (Oryza sativa) under irrigated sub-tropics of Jammu region. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(2), 316-9.

A field experiment was conducted at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Jammu during 2016 kharif to study the growth, yield attributes, yield, quality and economics of basmati rice (Oryza sativa). Significantly highest growth parameters viz., plant height and dry matter accumulation; yield and yield attributes viz., number of panicles hill^-1, number of grains panicle^-1, grain yield (t ha^-1) and straw yield (t ha^-1) were 100 % [30 kg N: 20kg P₂O₅:10 kg K₂0] recommended dose of fertilizer). Non-significant changes were recorded in quality parameters viz., amylose and crude protein content. Minimum cost of cultivation (Rs 20782 ha^-1), highest gross returns ( 79675 ha^-1), highest net returns ( 71322 ha^-1), and highest benefit cost ratio (3.43) were also recorded with recommended dose of fertilizer.

2 tables, 8 ref

044500   XINGHU S, YING H, YUAN Y, TUNG S, SOULIYANONH B, GUOZHENG Y (Huazhong Agricultural Univ, Wuhan- 430 070, China, Email: ygzh9999@mail.hzau.edu.cn) : Cotton N rate could be reduced further under the planting model of late sowing and high-density in the Yangtze River valley. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

An optimal N rate is one of the basic determinants for high cotton yield. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal N rate on a new cotton cropping pattern with late-sowing, high density and onetime fertilization at the first flower period in Yangtze River Valley, China. A 2-year experiment was conducted in 2015 and 2016 with a randomized complete block design. The cotton growth process, yield, and biomass accumulation were examined.  The results showed that N rates had no effect on cotton growing progress or periods. Cotton yield was increased with N rates increasing from 120 to 180 kg·hm−2 , while the yield was not increased when the N rate was beyond 180 kg·hm−2 , or even decreased (9∼29 %). Cotton had the highest biomass at the N rate of 180 kg·hm−2 is due to its highest accumulation speed during the fast accumulation period.  The result suggests that the N rate for cotton could be reduced further to be 180 kg·hm− 2 under the new cropping pattern in the Yangtze River Valley, China.

3 illus, 4 tables, 33 ref

044498   LARBOUGA B, ESTER K, MAHAMADOU S, MICHEL F (Montpellie Univ, Montpellier, France, Email: michel.fok@cirad.fr) : BT cotton seed purity in Burkina Faso: Status and lessons learnt. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

Since the commercial release of Bt cotton in Burkina Faso in 2009, the issue of seed purity in producers’ fields has rarely been addressed in an unbiased and objective manner. The potential for contamination of conventional seed varieties with Bt traits and the consequent threat to the continuation of organic cotton production has been documented. However, studies are rare on the varietal purity of Bt cotton seeds, despite the implications for the effectiveness and sustainability of their use. This paper compensates for the lack of research on the varietal purity of cotton seeds in Burkina Faso by reporting the results of Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay tests collected in 2015 on samples of both conventional and Bt varieties from 646 fields. According to the conservative criteria used to declare the presence of a Bt gene in a given variety (more than 10 % of seeds of conventional variety exhibit Bt traits, and at least 90 % of seeds of Bt variety exhibit Bt traits), seed purity was very questionable for both types of variety. For the supposedly conventional variety, the Cry1Ac gene was observed in 63.6 % of samples, the Cry2Ab gene was observed in 59.3 % of samples, and both genes were detected in 52.2 % of the seed samples. Only 29.3 % of the seeds that were supposed to be of conventional type contained no Bt genes. Conversely, for the labeled Bt variety, the Cry1Ac gene was found in only 59.6 % of samples, the Cry2Ab gene was found in 53.6 % of the samples, and both genes were found in 40.4 % of the samples. Finally, for the seeds that were supposed to contain both genes (Bollguard 2), both Cry1Ac and Cry2Ab genes were found in only 40.4 % of the samples, only one of the genes was found in 32.4 % of the samples, and 27.2 % of the seeds in the samples contained neither. Two factors are responsible for the severe lack of seed purity. First, conventional varieties are being contaminated with Bt traits because of a failure to revise the seed production scheme in Burkina Faso to prevent cross-pollination. Second, the original Bt seeds provided to Burkina Faso lacked varietal purity. The organic sector plays a very minor role in the cotton sector of Burkina Faso (production of organic cotton totaled 453 t in 2018/2019, out of national cotton production of 183 000 t). Nevertheless, the lack of purity in conventional seed varieties is a threat to efforts to expand certified organic cotton production. The poor presence of Bt proteins in supposed Bt varieties undermines their effectiveness in controlling pests and increases the likelihood of the development of resistance among pest populations. Our results show the extent of purity loss when inadequate attention is paid to the preservation of seed purity. Pure conventional seeds could vanish in Burkina Faso, while Bt seeds do not carry the combination of the expected Bt traits. Any country wishing to embark on the use of Bt cotton, or to resume its use, as in the case of Burkina Faso, must first adjust its national seed production scheme to ensure that procedures to preserve varietal purity are enforced. The preservation of varietal purity is necessary to enable the launch or the continuation of identity-cotton production. In addition, the preservation of varietal purity is necessary to ensure the sustainable effectiveness of Bt cotton. In order to ensure that procedures to preserve varietal purity are observed, seed purity must be tested regularly, and test results must be published.

1 illus, 5 tables, 34 ref

044497   DELHOM CHRISTOPHER D, HEQUET ERIC F, BRENDAN K, NOUREDDINE A, MARTIN VIKKI B (USDA-ARS, LA- 70124, USA, Email: chris.delhom@usda.gov) : Calibration of HVI cotton elongation measurements. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

The strength of cotton fiber has been extensively studied and significant improvements in fiber strength have been made, but fiber elongation has largely been ignored, despite it contributing to the energy needed to break fibers, which affects fiber handling and processing. High Volume Instruments (HVI) measure fiber elongation but have not been calibrated for this property, making the measurement unavailable for comparative work among instruments. In prior work, a set of elongation calibration materials had been developed based on Stelometer results. A round trial of ten Australian and U.S. instruments was conducted on six cotton samples representing a range of 4.9 % to 8.1 % elongation. By scaling the HVI elongation values of each instrument to the values of the two calibration samples, the coefficient of variation in instrument measurements was reduced from an average of 34 % for the uncalibrated measurements to 5 % for the calibrated measurements. The reduction in variance allows for the direct comparison of results among instruments. A single-point elongation calibration was also assessed but found to be less effective than the proposed two-point calibration. The use of an effective calibration routine on HVI measurement of cotton significantly reduces the coefficient of variation of the elongation measurement within and between instruments. The implementation of the elongation calibration will allow testing and breeding programs to implement high-speed elongation testing which makes the use of elongation values possible in breeding programs.

1 illus, 8 tables, 28 ref

044496   NYANGASI K J , ODONGO M R, LINYERERA S M, PU L, GEREZIHER M T, YUANCHAO X, YUQING H, GAYA A S, YUN Z, XIAOYAN C, ZHONGLI Z, KUNBO W, FANG L (Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Anyang- 455 000, China, Email: cxycri@163.com) : Genetic map construction and functional characterization of genes within the segregation distortion regions (SDRs) in the F2:3 populations derived from wild cotton species of the D genome. J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

Segregation distortion (SD) is a common phenomenon among stable or segregating populations, and the principle behind it still puzzles many researchers. The F2:3 progenies developed from the wild cotton species of the D genomes were used to investigate the possible plant transcription factors within the segregation distortion regions (SDRs). A consensus map was developed between two maps from the four D genomes, map A derived from F_2:3 progenies of Gossypium klotzschianum and G. davidsonii while Map B from G. thurberi and G. trilobum F_2:3 generations. In each map, 188 individual plants were used. The consensus linkage map had 1 492 markers across the 13 linkage groups with a map size of 1 467.445 cM and an average marker distance of 1.037 0 cM. Chromosome D₅02 had the highest percentage of SD with 58.6 %, followed by Chromosome D₅07 with 47.9 %. Six thousand and thirty-eight genes were mined within the SDRs on chromosome D₅02 and D₅07 of the consensus map. Within chromosome D₅02 and D₅07, 2 308 and 3 730 genes were mined, respectively, and were found to belong to 1 117 gourp out of which 622 groups were common across the two chromosomes. Moreover, genes within the top 9 groups related to plant resistance genes (R genes), whereas 188 genes encoding protein kinase domain (PF00069) comprised the largest group. Further analysis of the dominant gene group revealed that 287 miRNAs were found to target various genes, such as the gra-miR398, gramiR₅207, miR164a, miR164b, miR164c among others, which have been found to target top-ranked stress-responsive transcription factors such as NAC genes. Moreover, some of the stress- responsive cis-regulatory elements were also detected. Furthermore, RNA profiling of the genes from the dominant family showed that higher numbers of genes were highly upregulated under salt and osmotic stress conditions, and also they were highly expressed at different stages of fiber development. The results indicated the critical role of the SDRs in the evolution of the key regulatory genes in plants. 

8 illus, 3 tables, 88 ref

042414   SINGH SB, KASANA RK, KUMAR S, KUMAR R (Regional Maize Research and Seed Production Centre, Begusarai-851 129, Bihar, Email: singhsb1971@rediffmail.com) : Assessing genetic diversity of newly developed winter maize (Zea mays L.) inbred lines. Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 68-76.

Understanding the genetic diversity among the breeding materials is fundamental consideration for any crop improvement programme. Ninety seven newly developed winters maize inbred lines along with thirteen released inbreds were evaluated to assess the genetic diversity based on morphological traits. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences for 13 characters studied. All the inbred lines were grouped into fifteen clusters with ten solitary clusters. The D ² statistics displayed that cluster I being largest group, with maximum inbred lines (37) followed by Cluster II (24), Cluster III (16) Cluster IV (14) and Cluster V (9). The maximum intercluster distance was observed between cluster V and cluster XV (26.96) followed by cluster IV and XV (26.12), cluster V and XII (24.55) suggesting higher probability of heterotic combinations if parents selected from these pairs of groups. Cluster IV has the highest intra-cluster distance (11.59). Maximum genetic divergence as per cent was contributed by 100 kernel weight (39.45) followed by days to anthesis (22.64), grain filling duration (10.31) and grain yield (10.50). On the basis of per se performance, intra and inter cluster distance, inbred lines IMLSB-2005, IMLSB-1000-2, IMLSB-182-1, IMLSB-719-1, IMLSB-164-1, IMLSB-457-2, IMLSB-2083, IMLSB-1298-2, IMLSB-1298-5 and IMLSB-246-2 were identified that might be used in maize improvement programme to develop superior hybrid combinations.

2 illus, 6 tables, 24 ref

042413   KUMAR ASINGH NK, JEENA AS, JAISWAL JP, SS VERMA SS (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Central Agriculture Univ, Imphal–795 004, Manipur, Email: amarjeetgpb@gmail.com) : Evaluation of teosinte derived maize lines for drought tolerance. Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 60-7.

Maize plants grown in subtropical and temperate regions are often subjected to moisture stress. The wild progenitors of the crop species are the important source of genes of various abiotic and biotic stress tolerance. Teosinte (Z. mays ssp. parviglumis), the progenitor of maize possesses several important genes of agronomic importance, majority of which were lost during the process of domestication. In the present investigation, 203 modern maize BC₁F₂ introgressed lines (encoded as AM-1 to AM-203) were developed and evaluated under irrigated and moisture stressed environments. In order to introduce the genes of agronomic importance from the progenitor teosinte to modern maize, DI-103 inbred were crossed with teosinte. The present study involved evaluation of 203 lines (encoded as AM-1 to AM-203). These lines were grown in a single row in two environmental conditions i.e. irrigated and stress condition during Rabi 2016-17 for the phenotyping of morpho-physiological traits viz., anthesis silking interval (ASI), leaf rolling, leaf firing, canopy temperature depression (CTD), chlorophyll content, ear length, ear diameter, kernel rows/ear, kernels/row, tip filling, grain filling, grain yield per plants (g), and 1000-kernel weight and drought tolerance index, stress tolerance index, yield index associated with drought tolerance. Overall sum of rank scores over thirteen traits associated with drought tolerance revealed that AM-39 was the most drought tolerant line among all the 203 lines under study with a total score of one hundred eight, followed by AM-64, AM-16, AM-42, and AM-102, whereas, AM-116 was the most susceptible, with the least score of thirty-four.

4 tables, 20 ref

042412   GANGADHARA K, RATHNAKUMAR AL, THIRUMALAISAMY PP, AJAY BC, HK GOR HK (ICAR-Directorate of Groundnut Research, Junagadh–362 001, Gujarat, Email: Gangadhara.K1@icar.gov.in) : Genetic diversity for yield and water use efficiency related traits in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 52-9.

Cluster analysis using Mahalnobis D2 was performed using 97 groundnut diverse genotypes for 14 yield contributing and water use efficiency related traits. The genotypes were grouped into twelve clusters based on D2 statistic. Cluster II was the largest with 54 genotypes followed by cluster I with 33 genotypes and remaining ten clusters had one genotype each. The inter cluster D2 values revealed maximum divergence between cluster VI and cluster III (1736), followed by cluster XII and cluster III (1622); cluster VI and cluster X11 (1389); cluster IX and cluster XI (1171) and cluster XI and cluster II (1041). It was observed that plant height was the largest contributor (65 %) towards genetic divergence followed by days to maturity (10 %) and secondary branches per plant (10 %), SPAD Chlorophyll Meter Reading (SCMR; 4.3 %) kernel length and hundred pod weight (1.2 %) and Specific Leaf Area (SLA; 0.06 %) contributed the least for divergence. Estimates of GCV and PCV were high for plant height, primary and secondary branches and pod yield per plant indicating higher genetic variation present in the genotypes studied. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for days to fifty per cent flowering, secondary branches per plant, hundred pod and kernel weight, kernel length and, SCMR. SLA exhibited moderate estimates of heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean.

8 tables, 25 ref

042411   BHARDWAJ M, KANDARI LS, NEGI T (Forestry and Environmental Sciences Dep, HNB Garhwal Univ, Srinagar Garhwal–246 174, Uttarakhand, Email: luxkandari@gmail.com) : Survey of major ethnomedicinal plants of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 43-51.

This paper highlights the medicinal plant wealth and its gradual depletion in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. In most cases, the entire plant is dug out for their rhizomes or roots thereby reducing the chances of regeneration. Out of the forty one plants species in the study areas, 83 % belong to herbs, 7 % to shrubs and 10 % to trees. Apiaceae and Asteraceae being the predominant families represented by 7 species each. Maximum utilisation (56 %) of roots and rhizomes was observed followed by whole plant (12.2 %), seeds (10 %), leaf and flower (7.3 %), fruits (5 %), barks and leaf (2.4 %), and bark, stem and flower (2.4 %). Out of 41 plants recorded in the present study, 10 were reported to cure stomachache followed by rheumatism and fever (09), and 4 by anaemia and skin disease. Thirty-three plants species have been reported to have more than one therapeutic uses, whereas 17 species are reported to be used for single ailment.

4 illus, 4 tables, 31 ref

042410   AKHILRAJ TM, PARTHIBAN KT (Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Mettupalayam–641 301, Tamil Nadu, Email: akhil.rajtm@gmail.com) : Development and documentation of dus traits for Melia dubia cav. genetic resources. Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 36-42.

Melia dubia Cav. is a fast-growing, multi-purpose tree suitable for various wood-based industries. Several tree improvement programmes have been undertaken within the country and Tamil Nadu Agricultural University has played a significant role in varietal development of this species. In order to protect the genetic resources through the existing legal mechanism, there is a need to develop DUS traits for each germplasm. Under such criteria, attempts were made to characterize and document DUS traits for Melia dubia genetic resources which involved 30 improved genotypes. As of now, there is no systematic documentation of DUS traits. The present study deployed 30 Melia dubia genotypes and identified DUS traits for bark, branch and leaf characters. The DUS characterization was carried out by studying the morphological characters such as bark colour and texture, branch angle, leaf apex and base shape, leaf margin and leaf rachis colour as qualitative parameters. The lenticel characters like size, diameter, density and leaf characters like length and breadth are assessed as quantitative parameters. The study exhibited significant variations among the melia genotypes for various DUS traits

5 tables, 13 ref

042409   SAROJ PL, RAM C, KUMAR K (ICAR-Central Institute for Arid Horticulture, Bikaner–334 006, Rajasthan, Email: plsaroj@yahoo.co.in) : Arid horticultural crops: Status and opportunities under changing climatic conditions. Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 17-31.

Arid ecosystem, especially ‘Thar Desert’ of India possess highest flora and fauna among the desert ecosystems of the world. It has a very rich floral diversity consisting about 628 species, 352 genera and 87 families, mainly occupied by dry grassland, trees, thorny bushes, and arid fruits and vegetables of economic importance. The adapted species of hot arid zone have specific traits of high significance in future for climatic changes and/or the emergence of new diseases. On the other hand, herbal nutraceuticals and antioxidants are gaining momentum world over for human being as well as animal’s health care and arid flora are treasure house of such traits. Mining of unique genes from arid flora provides ample scope for imparting abiotic stress tolerance in the high yielding commercial crop cultivars. Most of the native flora of this region viz. Khejri, ker, kumat, karonda, kachri, pilu, lasora, bitter apple, cactus pear, phog, kheep, etc are unexploited and underutilized which require sincere research efforts for their conservation and sustainable utilization at commercial level. Nutraceutical and nutritional profiling of selected indigenous and traditional crops and varieties, and their bioavailability can help to determine which crops should be promoted and marketed for the health benefits. Besides, arid regions have an ample scope for introducing a number of crops from isoclimatic regions for crop diversification and promotion of nutritional security. Furthermore, the Indira Gandhi Canal Project has increased the over-exploitation of ‘Thar Desert’ for agricultural activities which enhanced the domestication of animals, particularly dairy animals like cows, buffalos, goats and other ruminants in the region. Also, the area under fruits, vegetables and spices has increased substantially since past few decades. Thus, sustainable management of these arid horticultural native crop plants certainly reduces the poverty, malnutrition and improves the nutritional quality of the foods and ultimately ensure nutritional security of resource poor people living in hot arid climate. This review will be helpful in conserving native flora of arid region and their sustainable use during the scenario of climate change.

3 illus, 9 tables, 38 ref

040585   SRINIVAS J, MEENA S S (FMPE Dep, MPUAT, Udaipur - 313 001, Email: jsrinivas.527@gmail.com) : Design and development of walking type multi-crop power weeder. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 266-71.

Designed walking type multi-crop power weeder consisted of 1.8 kW petrol engine, worm gear reduction box, spring steel cutting blades, flanges, rotor shaft, ground wheels, frame and handle. Provision was given to alter its working width in the range of 150 to 450 mm by attachable shafts to rotor shaft serving it to be useful in multiple crops. Rotor shaft diameter was calculated to be 18 mm by considering the maximum tangential force of 75.63 kg acting on it at maximum tangential speed of blade of 2.51m/s at 200 rpm of rotor shaft. The operational speed observed with 6 blades per flange arrangement was faster in okra crop (0.39 m s^-1) than in chilli crop (0.38 m s^-1). The operational speed observed in maize crop with 6 blades per flange arrangement was slower (0.36 m s^-1) than 4 blades per flange arrangement (0.38 m s^-1). The field efficiency determined with 6 blades per flange arrangement was higher in okra crop (82.5 %) than in chilli crop (80.7 %). The field efficiency in maize crop determined with 6 blades per flange arrangement was lower (74.9 %) than 4 blades per flange arrangement (77.6 %).The 6 blades per flange performed better weeding operation than 4 blades per flange arrangement.

8 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

040582   SHRESTHA B B, ADITYA G, RAO A R, AYYANNA D (Vignan's Foundation for Science Technology and Research, Vadlamudi - 522 213, Email: bibekubkv2708@gmail.com) : Yield and quality analysis of paneer from cow milk and buffalo milk. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 241-7.

Paneer is an acid and heat coagulated product but not a fermented product. In the present study different combinations of cow and buffalo milk was taken to prepare paneer. At first milk combination was heated to coagulation temperature of 75°C, 80°C and 85°C and was coagulated with 1 % citric acid. Chemical analysis of paneer was done to evaluate its moisture content, protein content and fat content. The maximum yield of 163.955g paneer was observed for 700: 300 (buffalo: cow), 85°C coagulating temperature and 1 % citric acid solution with a desirability value of 0.781. The maximum fat content of 61.0863 % from paneer was observed for 740: 260 (buffalo: cow), 83.88°C coagulating temperature and 1 % citric acid solution with a desirability value of 0.794. The maximum protein content of 18.7148 % from paneer was observed for 700:300 (buffalo: cow), 85°C coagulating temperature and 1% citric acid solution with a desirability value of 0.908. The study concluded that 700: 300 (buffalo milk: cow milk) combination along with 80.73°C coagulating temperature and with 1 % citric acid solution as coagulating agent given maximum yield of 165.642g paneer with 18.28 % protein and 58.21 % fat content.

2 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

044495   MUBASHAR Z M, ABDUL R, AWAIS F M, ABDUL R, HINA F, AMIR S, HUIJUAN M, MAOZHI R (Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang- 455 000, China, Email: mohuijuan86@163.com) : Insect resistance management in Bacillus thuringiensis cotton by MGPS (multiple genes pyramiding and silencing). J Cotton Res 2020, 3, 10.1186/s42397-.

The introduction of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cotton has reduced the burden of pests without harming the environment and human health. However, the efficacy of Bt cotton has decreased due to field-evolved resistance in insect pests over time. In this review, we have discussed various factors that facilitate the evolution of resistance in cotton pests. Currently, different strategies like pyramided cotton expressing two or more distinct Bt toxin genes, refuge strategy, releasing of sterile insects, and gene silencing by RNAi are being used to control insect pests. Pyramided cotton has shown resistance against different cotton pests. The multiple genes pyramiding and silencing (MGPS) approach has been proposed for the management of cotton pests. The genome information of cotton pests is necessary for the development of MGPS-based cotton. The expression cassettes against various essential genes involved in defense, detoxification, digestion, and development of cotton pests will successfully obtain favorable agronomic characters for crop protection and production. The MGPS involves the construction of transformable artificial chromosomes, that can express multiple distinct Bt toxins and RNAi to knockdown various essential target genes to control pests. The evolution of resistance in cotton pests will be delayed or blocked by the synergistic action of high dose of Bt toxins and RNAi as well as compliance of refuge requirement.

3 illus, 2 tables, 135 ref

040553   PALAKURU M, BABU S K K, RENGANAYAKI P (Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore - 632 014, Email: khadar.babu36@gmail.com) : Estimation of rice crop biophysical parameters using multitemporal sentinel-2 MSI sensor data. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 53-7.

The study focuses to efficiently estimate and mapping rice crop biophysical parameters using high temporal and spatial resolution sentinel-2 satellite imagery. Biophysical properties provide a good understanding of physics of the interaction between vegetation and solar radiation. Crop canopy properties can be collected through inversion using nadir reflectance in various bands. NDVI is sensitive to the light, angle of view, sensor after canopy peak is touched. Rice crop biophysical parameters are autonomous from viewing angle and light conditions. The major rice crop biophysical parameters are leaf area index (LAI), Chlorophyll content, fraction of photosynthetically active radiation (FAPAR), canopy water content (CWC), fraction of cover (FCover), and crop biomass respectively. Biophysical parameters are known as mirrors of plant health construction and crop yield. Regression model was developed using chlorophyll, CWC, FAPAR, LAI and FCover with coefficient of determination 0.83 to accurately predict crop biomass. It is concluded that the study is helpful to monitor overall health of rice crop and it is proved that methodology has potential to estimate and monitor biophysical parameters of rice crop. From the study it is known that sentinel-2 has the potential to estimate and map rice crop biophysical parameters precisely.

14 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

040552   DHIVYA E, SANTHI K, BALAMURUGAN R (Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore - 632 014, Email: santhikrishnan@vit.ac.in) : Barley crop yield forecasting using ensemble methodadaptive boosting of weak regressors. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 49-52.

Prediction and forecasting of crop yields based on various climatic conditions are an intensive process. In the proposed work adaptive boosting prediction model is presented, using the datasets of barley crops along with the climatic features of the states located in Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana. The study discusses the experiments on weak regression technique like the linear regression, SVR Linear regression and proposes a strong prediction method in terms of regression like the Adaptive Boosting (Adaboost) technology in order to increase the accuracy in the prediction techniques. The Adaboost method combines several weak regressors and presents a weighted sum representing a strong final output. It has been observed from the experiments that, the decision of weak regressors varies due to frequent, inherent attributes of climatic conditions for crop production. The various numerical simulations, results and statistical measures demonstrate the efficiency of the strong Adaboost based regressors when compared to weak linear regressors.

4 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

042363   KAUR J, PATRA R C, HAZARI A, KANUNGO B (Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara, Punjab, Email: rameshbmc22@gmail.com) : Health related quality of life among bank workers in Punjab: A comparison with normal healthy subjects. Indian J Physiother Occup Ther 2020, 14(1), 10.5958/0973-56.

Health related problems can restrict with even the most elementary aspects of daily living. It is a significant reason of occupational complaint and diminished quality of life for the staffs. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is an assessment of the person’s well-being. The purpose of this research is to determine HRQOL among the employees of the bank in India. HRQOL were cross-sectionally measured over and done with short form of SF-36 questionnaire. Total 400 Subjects aged between 25-45 years who met the inclusion criteria were selected for the study where 200 bank emplyees and 200 normal healthy population. HRQOL were significantly lower in bank employees as compare to the normal population (P<.001). The result of the study ascertained that HRQOL appears to be lower among bank workers in Punjab. Therefor it is essential for interventions aimed at justifying the HRQOL among employees of the banking sector.

2 tables, 13 ref

040489   PATHAK P, GEDAM V V, DEOKAR S, BHAGAT S, CHAHANDE A, RAUT P (MIT School of Bioengineering Sciences & Research, Pune - 412 201, Email: pranav.pathak@mituniversity.edu.in) : Studies on the removal of Brilliant Green dye using low cost agricultural waste. Indian J Chem Technol 2020, 27(4), 333-9.

The potential use of Sugarcane Bagasse (SB) as environment friendly and low-cost industrial waste for the exclusion of brilliant green (BG) dye from wastewater has been studied. For this purpose, the batch adsorption process is applied to find adsorption kinetic and thermodynamic data. The second-order pseudo-kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm are found well suitable to explain the adsorption process of BG onto SB. The highest adsorption capacity analyzed using the Langmuir isotherm is 24.32 mg/g at 50°C. The Gibbs free energy (ΔG) values were observed to be negative at all functioning temperatures, validating that the BG is positive, shows the higher randomness at the adsorbent-adsorbate interface. In general, the study results propose that SB can be used as a low-cost and environment friendly agro-industrial waste material for effective removal of BG dye.

6 illus, 7 tables, 18 ref

040487   YADAV S, SINGH N (Agricultural Chemicals Div, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi - 110 012, Email: drneerasingh@yahoo.com) : Sugarcane trash ash: A low cost adsorbent for atrazine and fipronil removal from water. Indian J Chem Technol 2020, 27(4), 319-25.

The sugarcane trash ash (STA) has been explored as low cost adsorbent for atrazine and fipronil removal from water. Kinetics study suggested that the pseudo second order model best explain the adsorption of both pesticides. The STA show higher adsorption of fipronil (K_d - 1267.5-3321.1) than atrazine (K_d - 137.0-1445.3) while desorption followed reverse trend with 0-2.27 and 4.83-9.32 % fipronil and atrazine desorption, respectively. Isotherm model optimization suggested that the Freundlich isotherm best predict the adsorption-desoprtion behaviour of pesticides. Adsorption is highly nonlinear as 1/n values were 0.23 and 0.407 for atrazine and fipronil respectively. Adsorption decreased with increase in initial concentration of pesticide in solution. The sugarcane trash, a waste, can be used as energy source in boilers and the ash obtained can be utilized as low-cost adsorbent for pesticide removal from contaminated water.

4 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

042415   PANDEY A, NIVEDHITHA S, SAGAR V, MALAV P K, SHARMA S,AHLAWAT SP (ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBPGR), Pusa Campus–110012, New Delhi, Email: anjula.pandey@icar.gov.in) : Notes on diversity distribution and systematics study of Abelmoschus tuberculatus Pal & Har B. Singh: A close wild relative of okra from India. Indian J Plant Genet Resour 2020, 33(1), 77-84.

Germplasm of Abelmoschus tuberculatus Pal & Har B. Singh, a close wild relative of okra {A. esculentus (L.) Moench}was collected during an exploration undertaken to western Uttar Pradesh, adjoining areas of Haryana and Uttarakhand. The locality reported in Haryana indicates a new record of distribution of A. tuberculatus for the state. Field observations on plant habit, capsule and seed characters were compared with accessions from Rajasthan and characters delimitation at varietal level were identified. Gap analysis was presented here to find out target areas for future collection.

2 illus, 1 table, 41 ref

040405   AARIF O, PAMPORI Z A, HASIN D, SHEIKH A A, BHAT I A, PARRA J D (Veterinary Physiology Div, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Srinagar-190 006, Kashmir, Email: drzap64@gmail.com) : Accessing drop in milk production in cattle due to cold climate and subsequent nutrient amelioration in temperate Kashmir. Indian J Anim Res 2020, 54(2), 143-8.

The preliminary study to quantify the drop in milk production in cattle due to cold climate and subsequent nutritional amelioration in temperate Kashmir where the temperature in the winter months ranges from -4 to 10$°$C was conducted at Mountain Live stock Research Institute (MLRI), SKUAST-Kashmir and in various dairy farms in the vicinity. In the treatment group, the animals were provided with 150 grams of jaggery and 200 grams of crushed fenugreek daily in addition to normal feeding schedule. The data regarding milk yield and associated parameters were compared between winter (December to February) and spring (March to May) months. The milk yield was recorded daily for 15 days and then presented as an average. The average milk yield in treatment group (6.41±0.53 kg) was significantly (p<0.05) higher as compared to control group (4.48±0.21 kg) in the winter months. Similarly, the milk yield in the spring months was higher in treatment group (9.12±0.22 kg) as compared to control group (8.68±0.23 kg) but the difference was statistically non-significant. No significant changes were observed in milk composition in winter and spring months in both control and treatment groups. The overall milk production in the treatment group (7.76±0.49 kg) was significantly (p<0.05) higher in comparison to control (6.58±0.39 kg). Prolactin was higher in treatment group in both winter and spring months but the difference was significant (p<0.05) in winter months (7.20±0.38 and 5.67±0.13 ng/ml) only. Similarly, growth hormone in treatment group (5.53±0.16 ng/ml) was significantly higher as compared to control group (3.34±0.16 ng/ml) in winter months. Cortisol concentration was significantly (p<0.05) higher in control group (33.04±0.27 ng/ml) as compared to treatment group (24.33±1.84 ng/ml) in winter months.

6 tables, 34 ref

040402   ZABORSKI D, GRZESIAK W, WOJCIK J (Ruminants Science Dep, West Pomeranian Univ of Technology, Szczecin - 71270, Poland, Email: daniel.zaborski@zut.edu.pl) : The use of a rule-based module as a decision support system for dystocia detection in dairy cows. Indian J Anim Res 2020, 54(1), 128-30.

The aim of the present study was to construct a rule-based module (RBM) for dystocia detection in dairy cattle and to verify its predictive performance. A total of 3041 calving records of Polish Holstein-Friesian Black-and-White heifers and cows were used. Three continuous and seven categorical predictors of dystocia were included in the three decision tree models, from which the rules for RBM were extracted. The system was equipped with a user-friendly text interface. The percentage of correctly detected easy, moderate and difficult calvings in heifers on the independent test set was 26.13 %, 76.52 % and 77.27 %, respectively. The overall accuracy was 60.12 %. The respective values for cows were: 59.18 %, 69.01 %, 0 % and 62.03 %. The predictive performance of the constructed system was satisfactory, except for the difficult category in cows.

2 illus, 15 ref