000827   Khan A;Saha A;Pal P (Floriculture and Landscaping Dep, Faculty of Horticulrue, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur-741 252, Email: pal_pranabananda@yahoo.co.in) : Flowering performance of Polianthes tuberosa Linn. cv. Calcutta double as influenced by thermal regime. Nat Prod Radiance 2007, 6(4), 322-6.

In order to study the role of climatic parameters on different performance indicators of luberose. Polianthes tuberosa Linn. (Double type), an experiment was carried out at Horticulture Research F:arm, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur, District Nadia (West Bengal) during 2002. The crop was planted on 28* March 2002 with standard cultural practices. Dates corresponding to emergence (E), appearance of first {FFO) as well 35 last floret (LFO) corresponding to each tagged spike (27th October to 29Ih December 2002) were noted. Maximum and minimum temperature regime enjoyed by each spike during E-FFO and FFO-LFO stage were ntilized to derive different thermal indices to study the rate of phenological development as well as status of different performance indicators. Correlation studies showed that all the thermal indices pertaining to E-FFO stage and CHU (Cumulative heat units) during FFO-LFO stage were highly associated with different performance indicators. Regression studies showed that value of these indices during E-FFO stage could explain 55-82% variability of different indicators. Rate of reproductive development during E-FFO has been found to be a quadratic function of mean temperature- (R²;=0.74) where 21 -22°C mean air temperature showed maximum rate. Relationship developed in this study can be useful for predicting the performance of tuberose ahead of the hanest and assessing its worthiness in the market. A mean air temperature around 22°C during E-FFO is useful in early harvesting as well as obtaining higher racliis length and thereby the market value of this crop.

3 illus, 3 tables, 4 ref

000826   Karuppusamy S (Botany Dep, Sri Krishnadevaraya Univ, Anantapur-515 003, Email: ksamylin@yahoo.co.in) : Medicinal plants used by Paliyan tribes of Sirumalai hills of southern India. Nat Prod Radiance 2007, 6(5), 436-42.

An ethnobotanical survey was carried out to collect information on the use of medicinal plants by Paliyan tribes in Sirumalai hills of Eastern Ghats. About 90 medicinal plants are used in 17 various health problems; highest being for wound healing (12%). The majority of the remedies are prepared from freshly collected plant parts especially leaves from single species only. The treatment mode is usually oral, but some pastes using ingredients such as honey, common salt and milk are also applied.

1 table, 20 ref

000825   Karuppanapandian T;Pritam Bala Sinha A; Manoharan K (Plant Sciences Dep, Centre of Potential in Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Madurai-625 021, Email: tkpandian78@yahoo.com) : Effect of excess zinc-induced leaf senescence in attached green gram (Vigana radiata L. cv. Wilczek) leaves. J Pl Biol 2007, 34(3), 161-9.

The objective of the present study was to investigate the excess zinc (Zn)-induced leaf senescence and senescence arrest by free radical scavengers related to induction of lipid peroxidation and changes in antioxidative enzyme activities in six-day-old green gram (Vigna radiata L. cv. Wilczek) seedlings under controlled environmental conditions. Excess Zn was found to induce leaf senescence in green gram which is related to increase in the level of lipid peroxidation in terms of accumulation of malondialdehyde, but not in the level of hydrogen peroxide content. Catalase (EC 1.11.1.6) and glutathione reductase (EC 1.6.4.2) activities were significantly decreased under excess Zn-induced leaf senescence in green gram. Superoxide dismutase (EC 1.15.1.1) and ascorbate peroxi-dase (EC 1.11.1.11) activities did not seem to be affected by excess Zn-induced leaf senescence in green gram. Free radical scavengers, such as reduced glutathione, ascorbic acid, sodium benzoate and thiourea were found to effectively arrest excess Zn-indiued leaf senescence in green gram and at the same time inhibit the excess Zn-induced lipid peroxidation, suggesting that the excess Zn-induced lipid peroxidation is mediated through free radicals.

7 illus, 29 ref

000824   Kareem M A;Reddy M N;Singh R K (NO, Nationl Institute of Agricultural Extension Management, Rajerdernagar, Hyderabad-30) : Research-extension-farmer linkage for agricultural development. J Res-Birsa Agric Univ 2006, 18(2), 227-45.

3 ref

000823   Kandeyang S;Prasad K K;Chowdhary B M;Singh S K (Horiculture Dep, Birsa Agriculturl Univ, Ranchi-834 006) : Effect of intercrop and NPK fertilization of perfomeance of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench). J Res-Birsa Agric Univ 2006, 18(2), 251-5.

Field experiments conducted for two consecutive years 2000 and 2001 at Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi reveal that intercropping of okra with french bean did not significantly affect the performance of Okra. Significantly higher okra equivalent yield and net return were observed with okra + cowpea intercropping (134.61q/ha) and (Rs. 27733.89/ha respectively). 100% recommended dose of fertilizers recorded higher okra equivalent yield (153.16q/ha) and net returns (Rs. 30709.9 Iq/ha) as compared to rest of the fertilizer levels. The best performance of okra in terms of yield, number of fruits per plant size and plant height were observed with 100% recommended dose of fertilizer. This significantly highest okra equivalent yield (158.98q/ha) and net returns (Rs. 33205.17/ha) were obtained with okra + cowpea intercropping system at 100% recommended dose of fertilizers application which was at par with okra + cowpea at 75% recommended dose of fertilizers applied to both okra and cowpea.

2 tables, 8 ref

000822   Kalpana N S;Poonkodi P (Soil Science and Agril. Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Influence of different combinations of gypsum and lignite fly ash on residual soil fertility of sunflower grown soil. Andhra Agric J 2007, 54(3-4), 221-3.

^ssc1 table, 4 ref

000821   Jaffar Basha S K;Maheswara Reddy P (Horticulture Dep, Agricutlrual Office, , Kamalapuram-516 289) : Yield and economics of summer sesame as influenced by varied plant geometry and topping. Andhra Agric J 2007, 54(3-4), 233-4.

^ssc1 table, 3 ref

000820   Hemanthu U;Subba Rao M (Plant Pathology Dep, Agricultural College, Bapatla-522 101) : Evaluation of fungicides against Sclerotium hydrophilum Sacc.. Andhra Agric J 2007, 54(3-4), 230-2.

^ssc1 table, 2 ref

000819   Harrison H F;Snook M E;Peterson J K (Agriculture Dep, Agricultural Research Service, Russell Research Center, Athens GA, 30601 USA, Email: howard.harrison@ars.usda.gov) : Effects of environment and genotypes on the storage of root periderm resin glycoside content in sweet potato. Allelopathy J 2008, 22(1), 93-100.

Resin glycosides are complex compounds composed primarily of fatty acids and sugars that contribute to the allelopathic potential and pest resistance of sweetpotato. Total periderm resin glycoside (PRG) contents of 10 sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas L.) clones grown in field trials were determined using high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). PRG contents of the clones ranged from 0.04 to 10.02 % of periderm dry weight. Analysis of variance indicated that genotype accounted for most of the variation, however, when PRG contents from the three trials were combined and analyzed using a factorial design, environment and the genotype x environment interaction variances were also highly significant. Average PRG contents of progeny from a cross between a high PRG clone (Excel) and a low PRG clone (SC 1149-19) were 4.13 and 4.21 % periderm dry weight for the two maternal parents, respectively. PRG contents of individual progeny clones ranged from 0.1 to more than 20 % of periderm dry weight, and the distribution of contents among progeny was similar for the two maternal parents. These observations indicate that breeding sweetpotato genotypes with high PRG is possible and may be an effective way of enhancing allelopathic potential and pest resistance.

2 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

000818   Gupta Y C;Kauntey R P S (Zoology Dep, B.S.A. College, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh) : Efficacy of some insecticides against brinjal shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guen.. Proc Zool Soc India 2007, 6(2), 31-8.

Shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guen. is serious pest of egg plant brinjal, Solanum melongena Linn. Brinjal is a popular vegetable crop of high nutritive value, grown commercially over entire India (Choudhury, 1967). Studies on the comparative bio-efficacy of various insecticides suggest that 0.05 percent quinalphos provide longer protection. Though sevisulph is not as effective as quinalphos but excercised better control than its individual components and their field mixture keep the population of the borers considerably down.

1 illus, 3 tables, 3 ref

000817   Gupta M P (NO, , Tikamgarh-472 001) : Management of gram pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera (hubner) in chickpea with biorationals. Nat Prod Radiance 2007, 6(5), 391-7.

Chickpea, Cicer arietinum Linn. cv. 'JG-322' to find out the efficacy of indigenous products like neem leaf and seed kernel extract, neem oil, cow and buffalo butter milk, garlic and red pepper extract and biological pesticide, Bacillus thuringiensis as compared to chemical pesticide against the incidence of gram pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) at College of Agriculture, Tikamgarh (Madhya Pradesh) during rabi seasons of 2001-02, 2002-03 and 2003-04. Indigenous products, garlic + red pepper (0.5,1.0%), cow butter milk (4-8%), buffalo butter milk (8%) and biological insecticide, Bacillus thuringiensis (0.2%) were highly effective and statistically at par with chemical pesticides Quinolphos (0.05%) and Cypermethrin (0.01%) not only in reducing the larval population and % pod damage caused by H, armigera but also in increasing the grain weld of chickpea. Net profit was found to be quite closer to chemical pesticides. The incremental cost benefit ratio was highest with Garlic+Red pepper extract -0.5% (19.4) and Cow butter milk- 4% (19.3). Thus, these indigenous products can be employed effectively, economically and safely in controlling the incidence of gram pod borer in Chickpea.

6 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

000816   Ghom G K;Venkateswara Rao B (Horticulture Dep, Agricultural College, Bapatla-522 101) : Physical changes of sathgudi sweet orange fruit during various developmental stages. Andhra Agric J 2007, 54(3-4), 235-6.

^ssc2 tables, 3 ref

000815   Garg B K;Burman U;Kathju S (NO, Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur-342 003, Email: bkgarg@cazri.res.in ) : Physiological basis of yield improvement in clusterbean in response to row spacings and phosphorus nutrition. J Pl Biol 2007, 34(3), 147-54.

Interactive effects of phosphorus nutrition (0 and 40 kg ha ) and row spacings (30 cm and 45 cm) were studied on three cluster-bean genotypes (RGC-1002, RGC-197 and Maru guar having different maturity period) for two consecutive years (2004 and 2005) under rainfed conditions of Indian arid zone. The water use by plants was higher in 2005 (250.8 mm) than 2004 (200.9 mm) because of higher rainfall during the cropping period in 2005. Phosphorus application increased net photosynthesis, levels of total chlorophyll, starch, reducing sugars, soluble protein and nitrate reductase activity in all the genotypes at both row spacings in both the years. Effects on leaf metabolites, photosynthesis and NR activity were significantly higher at 45 cm than 30 cm row spacings during both the years in all genotypes, irrespective of P level. Early and medium maturing genotypes RGC-1002 and RGC-197 in general, displayed higher NR activity, levels of soluble protein, starch and chlorophyll than late maturing genotype Maru guar. Although seed yield and shoot dry matter of individual plants was higher at 45 cm than 30 cm row spacing during both the years, seed yield and DMP per unit land area were higher at 30 cm spacing in 2004 and at 45 cm in 2005. Phosphorus application generally increased seed yield of all genotypes under both row spacings and the years. Early and medium maturing genotypes yielded significantly higher than late maturing genotype Maru guar. Thus cultivation of genotypes of clusterbean having early to medium maturity with adequate P nutrition and row spacing of 45 cm may be most beneficial for obtaining sustainable yields under arid conditions.

3 illus, 4 tables, 27 ref

000814   Ezekiel R;Singh B;Datta P S (NO, Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla-171 001, Email: rajarathnamezekiel@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of low dose of gamma irradiation on the chipping quality of potatoes stored at 8 and 12°C. Potato J 2008, 35(1-2), 31-40.

Two doses of γ-irradiation (0.01 and 0.05 kGy) were used to treat potatoes of three varieties, viz., Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Chipsona-1 and Kufri Chipsona-2 before storage at 8 and 12°C ( 85-90% RH). Changes in weight loss, dry matter content, chip colour, reducing sugars, sucrose, phenols and free amino acids were determined at 30, 60, 90 and 120 days of storage (DOS). Irradiation with 0.01 and 0.05 kGy suppressed sprout growth, but caused 23-100% increase in weight loss. Irradiation caused a significant increase in dry matter, phenols and free amino acids content of tubers. Increase in reducing sugars and sucrose due to irradiation was not significant, but resulted in deterioration in chip colour. Amongst the three varieties tried, Kufri Chipsona-2 showed higher weight loss.

3 illus, 4 tables, 27 ref

000813   Esmaeil Y;Yassari N (NO, Management and Planning Organization of Mazandaran, Sary, Iran, Email: Yassari@yahoo.com ) : Profitability in canola (Brassica napus L.) yield by application of additional biofertilizers. J microbial Wld 2008, 10(1), 62-70.

In order to evaluate the effect of additional application of Azotobacter and Azospirillum inoculants (Biofertilizers) on canola (Brassica napus L.) yield and profitability, a split-plot experimental design with 20 treatments was carried out during 2004-2005 with four replications in the North of Iran. High yielding canola (cv. Hyola 401 hybrid), was grown in rotation after wheat. Two levels of biofertilizers as control and seeds inoculation in main plot, and ten treatments of chemical fertilizers comprising N, P, K, and their combinations, NPKS and NPK Zn in sub plots were applied. The treatment T₂₀resulted in the maximum seed yield (3374 kg/ ha) coinciding with the maximum number of pods per plant (246 pods per plant) followed by the treatments T₁₉, T₁₈, and T₁₅ Out of these 4 treatments, it was discovered that the highest net benefit of adding biofertilizers was observed at T₁₅ (1.07 m. Rials/ha = 117.7 $/ha). The paper projects how the efficiency of these biofertilizers was maximum in presence of N and P fertilizers, while in the presence of K and Zn fertilizers at T₂₀ it resulted mainly in the increase of fodder rather than seed. The seed N, protein and the oil percentage remained unaffected by biofertilizers application.

3 tables, 37 ref

000812   Dutta T K;Rao S B N;Sahoo P K;Singh N (NO, Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, Farah, Mathura-281 122, Email: tkd@cirg.res.in) : Evaluation of arhar (Cajanus cajan) straw based pelleted feeds and prediction of in vitro gas production. Anim Nutr Feed Technol 2007, 7(2), 161-8.

Different ratios of concentrate (C) and grinded Cajanus straw (R) were used to prepare pelleted feeds, namely, T₁, (C:R=80:20), T₂ (C:R=70:30), T₃ (C:R=60:40), T₄ (C:R=50:50), T₅, (C:R=40:60), T₅, (C:R=30:70) arid T₇:R= 100:00). The CP, EE, NFE and OM per cent in the substrates gradually decreased as Cajanus straw level increased in the pellets, whereas crude fiber and total ash levels showed the reverse trend. Based on the data of in vitro gas production (4-48h) polynomial regression equations were developed. Total gas production (ml) up to 48 h of incubation was significantly (P>0.01) higher in T₇ (187.81±0.59) than other treatments while lowest gas production was recorded in T₆ (l24.86±0.68). The trend of methane production at 24 h and 48 h showed that methane percentage gradually enhanced in the in vitro bottles as Cajanus straw level increased in the pellets, but the differences were non-significant among treatment groups. In vitro dry matter degradability (IVDMD%) was highest (P<0.01) in T₇ (61.11±0.77) and lowest in T₆ (39.60±0.57). Nitrogen degradability (%) followed the similar trend of IVDMD. Addition of Cajanus straw increased pH in some treatments. TVFA (mmol/dl incubation medium) concentration was significantly (P<0.01) higher in T₁, T₂, T₃ and T₇ than other treatments. NH₃-N (mg/dl incubation medium) was also highest (P<0.01) in T₇ and lowest in T₆. Acetate and acetate: propionate ratio remained unchanged due to increase of straw, whereas, propionate level reduced significantly (P<0.05). Results showed that in vitro gas production, IVDMD and fermentation products decreased due to increase of Cajanus straw in the feed pellets.

3 tables, 20 ref

000811   Dubal Z B;Paturkar A M;Waskar V S;Zende R J; Latha C;Vaidya V M (VPH Dep, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookot, Wynad, Kerela, Email: drzunjar@yahoo.co.in) : Comparative effect of organic acids and salts on some important microorganisms inoculated in goat meat stored at refrigerator temperature. J Vet Publ Hlth 2007, 5(2), 85-91.

Seven average sized goat forequarters were procured from freshly slaughtered animals and six of which were decontaminated with hot water spray (90°C for 2 min) and one was kept as an untreated control. Inoculation of decontaminated forequarters was carried out by S. faecalis, B. cereus, K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosaand S. Typhimurium at a concentration of about 10³ bacteria/ml. These forequarters was individually spray washed with 5% potassium sorbate, 2% lactic acid, salt combination (containing 5% sodium chloride and 2.5% each of sodium citrate, sodium acetate, sodium lactate and potassium sorbate) and acid combination (1.5% acetic and 1.5% propionic acid). Total viable count (TVC) of the treated meat samples reduced by about 0.47, 0.52, 0.96 and 1.16 log units with marginal changes in colour and odour scores, respectively, for these treatments. Inoculated organisms were found to be highly sensitive to salt and acid combination treatments, as compared to 5% potassium sorbate and 2% lactic acid treatment alone. Shelf-life of salt and acid combination treated samples increased to undesirable levels in 11 days, as against 3 days in untreated samples at refrigeration storage. Reveales that the carcass washings by salt and acid combinations were found to be suitable for extension of shelf-life and to increase the sensory and microbiological quality of meat.

7 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

000810   Doctor Babu T K;Sekhar Babu R;Raju V T;Sunil Kumar Babu G (Agricultural Economics Dep, Agricultural College, Bapatla-522 101) : Processing and marketing of cassava in east Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. Andhra Agric J 2007, 54(3-4), 185-9.

The total variable costs in sago unit was found to be Rs. 77,59, 265.28. The cost of raw tubers was the/major component of the variable cost in processing unit and it accounted for nearly 66,81 per cent (Rs. 56,87,136.00) to the total cost. The total fixed costs were higher in sago unit which accounted to the total Rs. 7,53,642.24. It can be noticed that the average price received by the producer was 147.00. the costs incurred by the processor were Rs.750.04 and the margin obtained by the processor was Rs.252.96 per unit. The processor's selling price (or) wholesaler's purchase price was Rs. 1150.00. The marketing cost was Rs.812.74 more in channel I when compared to the channel II (Rs. 802.64). This was due to the presence of wholesaler.

6 tables, 3 ref

000809   Dhuria R K;Purohit G R;Sharma T (Animal Nutrition Dep, College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Bikaner-334 001, Email: dhuriark12@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of incorporationof mustard (Brassica campestris) straw in the complete feed on nutrient utilization by sheep. Anim Nutr Feed Technol 2007, 7(2), 205-12.

Three iso-nitrogenous complete feeds containing mustard straw at 40 (T₁), 50 (T₂) and 60 (T₃) per cent levels were formulated and evaluated using 18 Marwari rams by conducting feeding trial of 28 days followed by metabolism trial for 7 days. The dry matter intake was 80.90, 77.01 and 74.74 g/ kg W^0.75 and 3.68, 3.50 and 3.41 kg/l00kg BW, respectively, in T₁, T₂ and T₃ groups without any significant differences. Apparent digestibility of dry matter, gross nutrients and fibre fractions were similar among the three diets. The OCP and TON contents of complete feeds were 10.33 and 57.38, 9.89 and 54.26 and 9.12 and 53.03 per cent, respectively in T₁, T₂ and T₃ treatment groups There was no significant difference between groups in the intake of OCP and TON per kg metabolic body weight. All animals were in positive nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balances and there was no differences between treatment groups. It can be concluded that mustard straw can be incorporated in the complete feed up to 60 % level without much adverse effect on voluntary feed intake and utilization of nutrients in sheep.

3 tables, 28 ref

000808   Devi B;Pandey A K;Srivastava R M (Veterinary and A.H. Extension Dep, Ranchi Veterinary College, Ranchi) : Time utilization of tribal and non-tribal women in animal husbandry activities. J Res-Birsa Agric Univ 2006, 18(2), 305-07.

^ssc1 table, 3 ref

000807   Deb D;Barbhuiya A R;Arunachalam A;Arunachalam K (Forestry Dep, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology, Nirijuli-791 109, Email: arunachalam_in@yahoo.com) : Ecological analysis of traditional agroforest and tropical forest in the foothills of Indian eastern Himalaya: vegetation, soil and microbial biomass. Trop Ecol 2008, 49(1), 73-8.

1 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

000806   Chandel R S;Singh B;Chandla V K;Sharma P K (Entomology Dep, CSK HPKV, Palampur-176 001, Email: visitrvchandel@yahoo.com) : Use of CIPC (isopropyl N-(3-chlorophenyl) carbamate) for the control of potato tuber moth in country stores. Potato J 2008, 35(1-2), 66-71.

Investigations on the management of Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) using CIPC (isopropyl N-(S-chlorophenyl) carbamate) revealed that it holds considerable potential to control P. operculella in stored potatoes meant for table and processing purposes. Spray of commercial formulation of CIPC (30% EC) @ 60ml / 140ml of water per tonne of potato, reduced infestation to negligible. After 50 days of storage, there was 80-84 percent reduction in pest infestation with CIPC treatment. In CIPC treated tubers, the damage was only superficial, the tuber skin was firm and the tubers were in perfect shape without any sprouts. There was almost 95 percent sprout inhibition in treated tubers. The residues were quite low (0.24-0.87 mg/kg f. wt.) in peeled tubers collected immediately after spray and these were well below the permissible limits defined for CIPC by Environmental Protection Agency. CIPC treatment assures greater sustainability, as it is neither costly, nor labour intensive.

2 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

000805   Carli C;Khalikov D (CIP-Liaison Office for the Central Asia and Caucasus Region, , CGIAR-CAC, Murtazaeva Str. 6, 700000 Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Email: c.carli@cgiar.org) : Micronutrient composition of predominant potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) varieties cultivated in Uzbekistan. Potato J 2008, 35(1-2), 41-5.

Potato is an important co-staple in Central Asia, and also a potential source of bioavailable minerals for human nutrition. The content of minerals Fe, Zn, P and Ca was determined in the tubers of ten potato varieties using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) assay. Varieties Picasso and Nevskiy had the highest iron content of 17.5 and 17.0 mg/kg on dry weight basis, respectively. It is interesting to notice that Nevskiy also ranked best in terms of zinc content (18 mg/kg dw). Positive and highly significant correlations (0.69 at p < 0.001) were observed between iron and calcium content.

1 table, 18 ref

000804   Bhardwaj S K;Laura J S (Biosciences Dep, M.D. Univ, Rohtak-124 001, Email: skbmdu66@gmail.com) : Antibacterial activity of some plant extracts against pathogenic bacteria Erwinia carotovora subsp. Carotovora. Potato J 2008, 35(1-2), 72-7.

The aqueous extracts of twenty plants were screened by agar diffusion methods for their antibacterial activity against Erwinia corotovora subsp. carotovoia, a causal organism of soft rot of potato. The strongest inhibitory effect was of the leaf extracts of Camellia sinensis, and bark extracts of Acacia arabicae and Acacia catechu. The inhibitory effect against tested bacteria was also shown by leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica, root extracts of Asparagus racemosus, seed extracts of Acacia fernesiana and fruit extracts of Aegle mannelos.

2 tables, 32 ref

000803   Barla S;Upasani R R;Thakur R;Singh M K;Pal S K;Verma U N (Agronomy Dep, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi-834 006) : Effect of intergrated nutrient management on productivity and energeties of rice-wheat cropping system. J Res-Birsa Agric Univ 2006, 18(2), 215-22.

An experiment on rice - wheat cropping sequence was conducted during 2001-02 and 2002-03 at University farm. Highest grain yield of rice was obtained under 25 % N substitution by Karanj leaf (Denis indica) in rice during 2001, while during 2002, the same was found when 100% recommended dose of fertilizer was applied in rice and wheat. Highest grain yield of wheat was recorded under 25 % N substitution by Karanj leaf in rice followed by 100% RDF in wheat during 2001 -02, while during 2002-03, 50% N substitution of N by Karanj leaf in rice + 100 % RDF in wheat recorded maximum wheat yield. Among the combination of inorganic and organic sources of nutrients, 50% N substitution by Karanj leaf + 100% RDF in wheat recorded maximum energy input. The maximum grain and biomass energy output was recorded under 25 % N substitution by Karanj leaf in rice + 100% RDF in wheat and the maximum energy use efficiency was under 25 % N substitution by Karanj leaf + 75% RDF in wheat.

4 tables, 7 ref

000802   Baliyarsingh B;Panda D;Das K K;Sarkar R K (Biochemistry Div, Plant Physiology and Environmental Sciences, Central Rice Research Ins, Cuttack-753 006, Email: rksarkar_99@yahoo.com) : Activity of enzymatic antioxidant defense systems in submerged rice seedlings. J Pl Biol 2007, 34(3), 193-8.

The influence of complete submergence on the antioxidant capacities in three Indica rice cultivars namely Kalaputia and Khadara (tolerant type) and Sarala (susceptible type) was examined under 8 days of complete submergence and subsequent re-aeration for 24 h. The activities of all the antioxidant enzymes decreased under submergence especially after four days of the treatment. The activities of catalase, ascorbate acid peroxidase, dehydroascorbate acid reductase and glutathione reductase were more in tolerant cultivars during submergence compared to the susceptible cultivar. The activities of superoxide dismutase and guaiacol peroxidase on the other hand were more or less similar during submergence between tolerant and susceptible cultivars. The activities of the enzymes increased during re-aeration with greater degrees in tolerant cultivars after 24 h of re-aeration. Tolerant cultivars maintained higher levels of hydrogen peroxide during submergence and subsequent period of re-aeration. The reduced ascorbate levels were significantly greater in tolerant cultivars especially after re-aeration. These results indicate that during re-aeration the antioxidant systems involving both superoxide dismutase and ascorbate regeneration pathway takes part in protecting the rice plants from injury triggered by reactive oxygen species.

2 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

000801   Bahuguna S N;Khatri S;Singh Y (Zoology and Biotechnology Dep, P.Box-70, H.N.B. Garhwal Univ, Srinagar Garhwal-246 174) : Identification of Barilius from the river Alaknanda Garhwal Himalaya. J Hill Res 2008, 21(1), 29-30.

2 tables, 10 ref

000800   Astaraei A R;Sampietro D A (NO, Instituto de Estudios Vegetales, Facultad de Bioquimica, Quimica y Far, Espana 2903, CP 4000, Tucuman, Argentina) : Allelopathic effect of almond on cress and fenugreek. Allelopathy J 2008, 22(1), 239-43.

In laboratory and pot assays, the allelopathic effects of almond plant parts were evaluated on the seed germination and seedling growth of cress and fenugreek. Effects of aqueous extracts of leaf, bark and mixture of leaf + bark were studied on seed germination and seedling growth of cress and fenugreek in Petri dish bioassays, at 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0% (v/v) concentrations. In pot experiments, seeds of test species were sown in soil mixed with leaf or bark residues at 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0% (w/w). Almond extracts inhibited the seed germination of both test species. Leaf and bark extracts were most inhibitory to fenugreek root elongation, while, 2% leaf and bark extracts completely inhibited the root elongation of cress. Almond residues were more harmful to fenugreek germination than to cress. Bark residues reduced the seed germination of both species more than leaf residues. However, the leaf residues stimulated the growth of cress plants. The results suggested that soil biotic and/or abiotic factors regulated the biological activity of almond plant parts residues. Nevetheless, further studies are needed to elucidate the allelochemicals involved.

2 illus, 14 ref

000799   Arya K;Bastian D;Vidhu Francis P (NO, College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural Univ, Vellanikkara, Thrissur-680 656) : Genetic evaluation to identify bush pepper cultivars for Kottayam distrct. Andhra Agric J 2007, 54(3-4), 178-84.

The black pepper cultivars of Kottayam district were studied to identify the popular cultivars with high yield and yield attributing characters. The identified cultivars raised as bush pepper were studied for vegeta-tive, spike, berry and yield characters. Among the popular cultivars, Narayakodi, Ramapuram, Karimunda, Karuvilanchi and Panniyur 1 were selected as suitable cultivars for bush pepper cultivation in Kottayam district. From the satistical analysis, it was observed that the characters under study were with high heritablity and genetic gain and provided a good base for selelction. Bush pepper traits such as green berry yield per pot, size and number of berries and spike length were identified as the selelction factors for the improvement of dry yield.

2 illus, 4 tables, 9 ref

000798   Arvind Kumar;Saha P B;Singh R P;Sarkar A K (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Birsa Agricultural Univ, Ranchi-834 006) : Profitability of liming in maize + pigeon pea intrcropping system in acid soils. J Res-Birsa Agric Univ 2006, 18(2), 205-8.

Field experiments were conducted to study the response of marketable lime on soil fertility changes and its impact on yield under maize + pigeon pea intercropping system in cultivators fields from 2001 to 2004. Response of lime in maize and pigeon pea was 25.89 and 34.41 percent, respectively, when grown as intercrops without application of fertilizers. In limed plots significantly higher pH was maintained, while it did not have effect on the soil organic matter content. Liming in maize + pigeon pea cropping system resulted in build up of exchangeable. Ca, Mg and P in acidic soils and uptake of these nutrients by crops. Benefit Cost Ratio of 1.85 ( lime alone) and 2.37 ( lime with rec. fertilizer level) indicate that it was an essential management practice to increase the income of resource poor farmers of the state.

4 tables, 5 ref

000797   Arora G K;Rup P J;Sohal S K (Zoology Dep, Guru Nanak Dev Univ, Amritsar-143 005, Email: satudhillon @hotmail.com) : Influence of coumarin on the enzymatic activity in nymphs of Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.). Allelopathy J 2008, 22(1), 221-29.

Analysis of 13 enzymes in the second instar nymphs of Lipaphis erysimi, after feeding on coumarin treated plants for 13h, 25h and 37h showed an increase in the activity of glutathione S- transferases, glutathione reductase, O-demethylase, esterases and alkaline phosphatase. On the other hand, the treatment suppressed the activity of NADH oxidase and glutathione peroxidase. The remaining enzymes viz., catalase, superoxide dismutase, succinate dehydrogenase and NADH dehydrogenase after showing an initial induction at 13h was suppressed with prolonged treatment. The acid phosphatase activity was not influenced by coumarin treatment.

^ssc1 illus, 2 tables, 49 ref

000796   Argyropoulos E I;Eleftherohorinos I G;Vokou D (Ecology Dep, School of Biology, Aristotle Univ, GR-54124, Thessaloniki, Greece) : In vitro evaluation of essential oils from mediterranean aromatic plants of the lamiaceae for weed control in tomato and cotton crops. Allelopathy J 2008, 22(1), 69-78.

Potential allelopathic activity of seven essential oils against two crops (tomato and cotton) and 5 weeds (Amaranthus retroflexus, Echinochloa crux-galli, Oryza sativa, Portulaca oleracea and Setaria verticillata) The essential oils examined originated from Lavandula stoechas, L. angustifolia, Mentha spicata. Origanum onites, 0. vulgare ssp. hirtum, Salvia fruticosa and S. pomifera. In in-vitro experiments, authors determined the effect of these essential oils and their constituents on seedling emergence and growth of target species. The oils of M. spicata, O. onites and O. vulgare ssp. hirtum severely affected both weed and crop species. Among the weeds, A. retroflexus was most sensitive, whereas O. sativa and E. crus-galli were least sensitive. Cotton proved the most sensitive of all species. The essential oils that originated from Lavandula and Salvia spp. showed good efficacy against A. retroflexus and P. oleracea, without severely affecting the tomato, hence, they have a high potential to be used as selective herbicides for weed control in tomato fields.

4 tables, 24 ref

000795   Angayarkanni A;Ravichandran K (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Agriculture Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-508 002) : Establishing the relationship between soil nitrogen status, N uptake and yield of rice in different soils. Andhra Agric J 2007, 54(3-4), 216-18.

^ssc2 tables, 4 ref

000794   Ananthan M;Balakrishnamoorthy G (Horticulture Dep, Coastal Saline Research Centre, Ramanathapuram-623 503) : Correlation studies in onion (Allium cepa var. cepa L.) for storage losses. Andhra Agric J 2007, 54(3-4), 237-9.

^ssc1 table, 6 ref

000793   Agrawal B K;Sarkar A K;Singh R P;Singh S; Prasad J (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistey Dep, Birsa Arricultural University, Ranchi-834 006) : Compacted rock phosphates as P source for soybean in an acid soil. J Res-Birsa Agric Univ 2006, 18(2), 267-9.

1 tables, 2 ref