Completely Randomized Research Articles

Resistance of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Varieties to Gram Pod Borer (Helicoverpa armigera) in a Controlled Environment

The research was conducted within the controlled environment of the net house at the Faculty of Agriculture Science and Technology, AKS University, Satna (M.P.), during the Rabi season of 2023-24. Eight diverse chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) genotypes, viz. JG-63, JG-130, L-2, JG-14, RAJ-128, Narendran-2, Annagiri and RVG-202, were systematically screened to evaluate their resistance to the gram pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera) under protected conditions. The study was meticulously designed using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications to ensure robust statistical analysis. Throughout the critical vegetative, flowering and maturity stages, the larval population density of H. armigera was rigorously monitored across all genotypes at regular intervals. The comprehensive data analysis revealed that genotypes RAJ-128 and RVG-202 demonstrated superior resistance, exhibiting the lowest mean larval density of 0.25 and 0.29 larvae per 0.5 m², respectively, indicating their potential for integrated pest management in chickpea cultivation.

Effect of Different Chemical Pretreatments and Packaging Systems on Quality Characteristics of Fresh-Cut Pomegranate Arils (Punica granatum, L.)

Aims: Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is considered as challenging to consume due to its hard structure, hence used for fresh-cut production. Extending the shelf life of fresh-cut pomegranate arils would improve their marketability, transport efficiency, and reduce post-harvest losses. Study Design: Completely Randomized Design by using GRAPES (General R based Analysis Platform Empowered by Statistics). Place and Duration of Study: College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, February 2022-July 2024. Methodology: Pomegranate arils were extracted and treated with different pre-treatment solutions viz., 0.5% ascorbic acid, 0.5% citric acid, 1% calcium chloride and 1% calcium ascorbate for 4 minutes. The best pre-treatment solution was selected and arils were packaged in different packaging systems viz., shrink wrapping in 15µ polyolefin film, vacuum packaging in laminated pouches, MAP with N2 flushing in laminated pouches, aluminium tray wrapped with cling film and stored under two different storage conditions, after treating with 1% calcium ascorbate. Results: 1% calcium ascorbate was selected as the best pre-treatment solution and pre-treated arils kept in MAP with N2 flushing in laminated pouches stored under low temperature condition was found to be the best packaging and storage system. 1% calcium ascorbate treated arils in MAP with N2 flushing in laminated pouches stored under low temperature condition (10±5oC) had a shelf life of 6 days with superior physiological (PLW, percent leakage), chemical (acidity, vitamin C, phenol) and sensory characters (color, flavour, texture, appearance, taste and overall acceptability) as compared to control (2.00 days). Maximum vitamin C content of 23.02 mg 100g-1 and least phenol content of 214.16 mg 100g-1 were recorded on 6th day of storage. Conclusion: Pomegranate arils pre-treated with 1% calcium ascorbate for 4 minutes, kept in MAP with N2 flushing in laminated pouches stored under low temperature condition (10±5oC) can be considered as a protocol for shelf life extension of pomegranate arils.

Evaluation of Field Performance of Groundnut Varieties through Different Vigour Tests

A field experiment was carried out to evaluate the field performance of groundnut varieties through different vigour tests during Rabi, 2023-24 at S.V. Agricultural College, Tirupati, Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Andhra Pradesh. The experimental material consisted of 10 groundnut varieties Narayani, Dharani, Dheeraj, TCGS-1694, Nithya Haritha, Kadiri-9, Kadiri-6, Kadiri Amaravathi, Kadiri-1812 and TAG-24 collected from different sources. In the preliminary experiment seed multiplication was done and the multiplied seed was used for conducting six vigour tests namely Germination test, speed of germination test, Seedling vigour index-Ⅰ, Seedling vigour index-Ⅱ, Accelerated ageing test, Electrical conductivity test in the laboratory using Completely Randomised Design with four replications. The multiplied seed was used for evaluating field performance using Randomised block design with three replications. Significant differences were found among the varieties based on vigour levels. Results with respect to field experiment showed that growth parameters i.e. field emergence percentage, days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, pod yield per plant, kernel yield per plant, pod yield per plot, plant height, shelling percentage, 100 seed weight and harvest index varied significantly among different varieties based on different vigour levels. Varieties with higher vigour had shown higher field emergence percentage. Among the ten varieties Kadiri-6 had shown highest field emergence percentage. Significant correlation was observed among laboratory and field experiments. Vigorous varieties were able to perform better in terms of some of the field parameters and among all the vigour tests performed speed of germination test had high correlation with field emergence.

Sprouting and Growth of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) At Green Stage Under Various Nutrients.

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a vital crop, yet its growth and sprouting at the green stage can be significantly influenced by nutrient availability, which poses a challenge for optimizing yield and quality. The present research was carried out in 2022–2023 at the Nursery Department of Horticulture, Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, to assess the sprouting and growth of garlic (Allium sativum L.) at green stage under various nutrients. The experimental trial was carried out in complete randomization (CRD) with three replications. Two varieties, a Chinese and a local (Desi) (Desi) variety, were grown in the pots. Macronutrients used as treatments included N1 (control). N2 = NPK+TE (trace elements) 2 g, L-1. N3 = Calcium Nitrate 0.5g, L-1 and N4 = NPK+TE 2g, L-1 + Calcium Nitrate 0.5g, L-1. The results of the present studies showed a statistically significant difference for treatments and nutrient combinations. Best results for all observations were noted in plants supplied with NPK+TE 2g L-1 that had maximum plant height 55.83 cm, leaves plant-1 6.83, leaf length 47.66 cm, leaf weight 8.96g, plant weight 13.20g, neck thickness 6.55mm, root weight 2.68g, and root depth 19.83cm. Fallow control plant height 41.00cm leaves plant-1 5.00, leaf length 31.00cm, leaves weight 4.73g, plant weight 7.61g, neck thickness 3.51mm, root weight 1.46g and root depth 12.00cm. In between varieties the Chinese had maximum plant height 54.66cm, leaves plant-1 7.00, leaf length 45.00cm, leaves weight 10.04g, plant weight 10.99g, neck thickness 8.26mm, root weight 2.81g and root depth 22.00cm. Based on nutrients, the Chinese variety of garlic performed better growth at the green stage than the local (Desi) variety of garlic. The findings of this study show that nutrient N2 = NPK+TE (Trace Elements) 2g L-1had better results for all parameters, and all results were statistically significant.

Survey of Rice Sheath Blight Disease in Kuttanad and Effect of Biocontrol Agents and Fungicides against Rhizoctonia solani

Aims: Rice is an important crop cultivated worldwide, whose production is influenced by numerous factors like pest, disease, weather parameters. In India, diseases accounts for 35 per cent in yield reduction, with sheath blight being significant. This disease is notably prevalent in Kuttanad region of Kerala. This study involves a survey conducted in Kuttanad to assess the extent of the disease and in vitro management using biocontrol agents and fungicides. Study Design: Study was outlined in Completely Randomised Design (CRD) to evaluate the in vitro efficacy of bioagents. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani and M.S. Swaminathan Rice Research Station, Moncompu, between 2022 and 2023 Methodology: Survey was conducted in forty locations of Kuttanad in which the disease incidence was recorded and samples were collected. The isolates obtained were tested for pathogenicity by artificial inoculation on rice variety, Uma. Cultural characteristics of isolates were studied. The virulent culture obtained was further advanced for the in vitro studies with biocontrol agents and fungicides. The inhibition of fungal growth was also recorded. Results: Forty isolates of sheath blight pathogen (Rhizoctonia solani) were obtained. The virulent isolate among these was identified on the basis of number of days taken for symptom development by artificial inoculation and this was further advanced for the in vitro studies. Bacillus amyloliquefaciens was found to be more effective with an inhibition percentage of 68.64. Among the tested fungicides, Kresoxim methyl 40% + Hexaconazole 8% WG showed cent per cent growth inhibition of pathogen at 500 and 1000 ppm concentrations which was on par with Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% SC at 1000 ppm. Conclusion: From this study, it can be concluded that, that these biocontrol agents and fungicides are very effective in the management of the pathogen and hence can be used for further field-level studies in management of the disease.

Comparative Bio Assay of New Generation Insecticides against Invasive Southeast Asian Thrips, Thrips parvispinus (Karny) (Thripidae:Thysanoptera)

Aims: Management of invasive southeast Asian thrips, Thrips parvispinus under laboratory conditions. Study Design: Completely Randomized Design. Place and Duration of Study: Regional Agricultural Research Station, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh during 2023. Methodology: Bio assays study was conducted with eleven insecticides for the Management of Thrips parvispinus under laboratory conditions following leaf dip method replicated thrice. Mortality and corrected mortality were assessed at 24 and 48 hours after treatment imposition by counting the number of dead and live adults. Results: Bio assay study revealed that the insecticide broflanilide 300 DC @ 64.0 ml/ha recorded significant high percent mortality of 93.3 at 48 hours after exposure. The insecticides fluxametamide 10 EC @ 400 ml/ha, tolfenpyrad 15 EC@ 1000 ml/ha, spinoterom 11.7 SC @ 500 ml/ ha and fipronil 5 SC @1000 ml/ha were at par with broflanilide 300 DC with 90.0, 90.0, 86.7 and 86.7 percent mortality, respectively. Lowest mortality of 6.0 percent was observed in untreated control where the leaves were agitated in distilled water. The corrected mortality was calculated and the insecticides broflanilide 300 DC (92.59 %), fluxametamide 10 EC (88.9), tolfenpyrad 15 EC (89.3), spinetoram 11.7 SC (85.9) and fipronil 5 SC @400 ml/acre (85.2) recorded high corrected mortality at 48 hours of post treatment.

Biochemical and physiological effects of propagule type and auxin concentration on adventitious root formation in novel Jasmine genotypes

Jasmine is primarily propagated through asexual methods, and bio-stimulants can improve soil fertility around plant roots. Some jasmine genotypes are mainly propagated through cuttings; however, the rooting process is slow and inconsistent. Specific jasmine genotypes are primarily propagated through cuttings, but the rooting process is slow and uneven. This study evaluated the regeneration potential of stem cuttings by investigating the effects of auxins and various propagule types on adventitious root formation, along with associated biochemical changes. A field experiment conducted by the Department of Floriculture and Landscaping at TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, from December 2023 to June 2024, during the winter monsoon, investigated the rooting of stem cuttings in three Jasminum genotypes using auxin. Stem cuttings of J. sambac Double Flower type (DF), J. grandiflorum White Flower type (WF) and a new cultivar of J. multiflorum CO.1 Winter Jasmine (CO.1 WJ) were treated with three Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA) concentrations (0.5, 1, 1.5 g L-1) and distilled water as control. Utilizing a Factorial, Completely Randomized Design for terminal and semi-hardwood cuttings, the study found that rooting hormone significantly enhanced root formation and stem and shoot growth. Semi-hardwood cuttings of J. sambac (DF) treated with 1g L-1 IBA had the highest rooting rate (88.60%), number of roots (9.34), root length (12.74 cm), shoot length (10.26 cm) and number of leaves (6.60). The highest rooting rate of 48.15% was obtained from the terminal cuttings of J. grandiflorum (WF) that had been treated with 1g L-1 IBA, in addition to other parameters such as number of roots (13.52), root length (12.03 cm), shoot length (14.30 cm), and number of leaves (13.48). On the other hand, J. multiflorum (CO.1 WJ) recorded the highest rooting rate of 72.23%, root number of 16.52, root length of 17.22 cm, shoot length of 14.14 cm and number of leaves, which was pegged at 31.70 when terminal cuttings were treated with 1g L-1 IBA. The current findings indicate that the application of auxins is crucial for promoting early root initiation and achieving higher rooting success, making it advantageous for vegetative propagation.

Improving the Germination Performance of Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata Wall. ex Nees) through Hydropriming, Halo-Priming and Osmopriming Under Salinity Condition

Salinity is a significant global issue that adversely affects seed germination and seedling vigour across a wide range of crops. Priming, however, is considered a basic method to enhance seed performance (germination and vigour) under saline conditions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of different priming treatments on seedlings under varying salinity levels (0, 4, 6, 8, and 10 dS m⁻¹) in Kalmegh, a traditionally valuable medicinal plant. Seeds were primed through four methods viz., T0- Non-primed (control), T1- Hydro primed (distilled water), T2- halo priming with NaCl (0.8%), T3- halo priming with CaCl2 (0.8%) and T4- osmo priming with KNO3 (1%) for 6 hours at 25ºC in the dark. This experiment was arranged in a factorial design based on a CRD (Completely Randomized Design) with three replications. The results demonstrated that priming treatments significantly improved germination percentage, seedling length (cm), seedling fresh weight (mg), seedling dry weight (mg), and vigour indices. Notably, seeds primed with KNO3 showed the highest germination performance at all salinity levels. Even at the highest salinity level, they achieved a germination percentage of 94% and a Seedling Vigour Index I of 506, compared to the control group, which exhibited a germination percentage of 88% and a Seedling Vigour Index I of 298. KNO3 priming at 0 dS/m produced the highest seedling length (8.5 cm), root length (2.7 cm), shoot length (6.4 cm), fresh weight (26.32 mg), and dry weight (10.3 mg).

In vitro Efficacy of Different Fungicides against Leaf Blight of Sunflower

Sunflower is one of the major oilseed crops cultivated in India. Alternaria leaf blight is one of the fungal diseases of Sunflower caused due the pathogen Alternaria helianthi, which is one of the significant limitations in the cost-effective cultivation of Sunflower in India. It is estimated that 20 to 80% losses in yield and heavy defoliation have been observed due to A. helianthi causal agent of leaf blight of Sunflower. Present investigation on evaluation on efficacy of different fungicides against leaf blight of Sunflower under in vitro condition by using Completely Randomized Design was conducted at Department of Plant Pathology, Dr. Sharadchandra Pawar College of Agriculture, Baramati during. Under this study seven fungicides viz., Chlorothalonil 75% WP, Hexaconazole 5% EC, Carbendazim+Mancozeb 75% WP, Carbendazim 50% WP, Tebuconazole 25.9% EC, Propiconazole 25% EC and Azoxystrobin 23% SC were evaluated against the pathogen Alternaria helianthi causing leaf blight in Sunflower at their recommended concentration and observation on mean radial mycelial growth and percent mycelial growth inhibition of pathogen was calculated. Results revealed that among various fungicides the three fungicides viz., Hexaconazole 5% EC, Tebuconazole 25.9% EC and Propiconazole 25% EC were found most effective with minimum mean mycelial growth and having maximum and similar (94.44%) percent growth inhibition of pathogen and rest of the fungicides tested were comparatively less effective against the pathogen A. helainthi associated with leaf blight of Sunflower.

Effects of Trichoderma Fermented Biourine Dosage on the Growth of Two Shallot Varieties

This study aims to determine the effect of Trichoderma harzianum fermented biourine dosage on the growth of two shallot (Allium ascolonicum L.) varieties. The research employed an experimental method with a Factorial Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of two factors: biourine dosage and shallot variety. The biourine dosage levels were: q0 = Without biourine application, q1 = 5 ml/plant, q2 = 15 ml/plant, q3 = 25 ml/plant, and q4 = 35 ml/plant. The shallot varieties tested were v1 = Keta Monca and v2 = Bali Karet. In total, 10 treatment combinations of biourine dosage and variety were evaluated. The results showed that the most effective biourine dosage for promoting shallot growth was 35 ml (q4). This dosage significantly increased plant height, number of leaves, number of tillers, fresh stover, dry stover, fresh tuber weight, and dry tuber weight. The Keta Monca variety outperformed in terms of number of tillers, fresh tuber weight, and dry tuber weight, while the Bali Karet variety exhibited greater plant height, number of leaves, fresh stover, and dry stover. Significant interactions between biourine dosage and variety were observed in parameters such as plant height at 3 and 4 weeks after planting (WAP), number of leaves at 1, 4, and 5 WAP, number of tillers at 6 and 7 WAP, fresh tuber weight, and dry tuber weight.

Comparative In vitro Assessment of Fungicides for Managing Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. capsici in Chilli

Chilli wilt disease, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. capsici, significantly threatens chili cultivation, impacting yield and quality. This study aimed to evaluate the fungi-toxic effects of various fungicides against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. capsici under in vitro conditions. Eight different fungicides viz., Tebuconazole 6.7 % + Captan 26.9 % w/w SC, Thiophenate Methyl 70% WP, Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP, Tebuconazole 50% + Trifloxystrobin 25% WG, Carbendazim 50% WP, Pyraclostrobin 20% WG, Chlorothalonil 75% WP and Azoxystrobin 18.2%+ Difenoconazole 11.4% SC were tested at a concentration of 500 ppm and 1000 ppm using the Poison food technique. The experiment was designed using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) and conducted at the Department of Plant Pathology, Dr. Sharadchandra Pawar College of Agriculture, Baramati, during the academic year 2023-24. All fungicides significantly (P < 0.01) inhibited the mycelial growth of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. capsici, with Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP showing the highest efficacy, followed by Tebuconazole 50% + Trifloxystrobin 25% WG and Tebuconazole 6.7 % + Captan 26.9 % w/w SC across both concentrations. This study suggests that the inhibition of pathogen growth increased with higher fungicide concentrations.

Effects of Botanicals and Synthetic of Insecticides on Field Emergence and Crop Establishment in Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilzeck

Mungbean, is a drought-resistant, green manure crop and suitable for dry land as a major pulse crop in India. India is the largest producer and consumer of pulses, which improve soil properties, provide nutritious fodder and prevent soil erosion. However, pests like bruchids can destroy 60% of production, necessitating the use of eco-friendly seed protectants. Laboratory studies were conducted at Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agricultural and Technology, Ayodhya, using mungbean seed cv. IPM-2-3. Seeds were mixed with seed protectants and stored in gunny bags. Field emergence and crop establishment were tested and data were analyzed using a Completely Randomized Design with three replications. Seed protectants and insecticides are effective in maintaining field emergence and crop establishment in mungbean. Emamectin benzoate, Sivanto prime and Gorakhmundi powder are the best treatments, with maximum field emergence and minimum establishment influenced by environmental factors. These findings are supported by various studies. Emamectin benzoate and Neemoz gold were found to be effective insecticides for field emergence and crop establishment in mungbean, with the latter recommended for storability and field establishment.

Unleashing the Potential of Different Method of Paddy Straw Substrate Bag for Enhanced Yield and Biological Efficiency of Milky Mushroom

Mushrooms, particularly Calocybe indica, are highly regarded for their distinctive flavour and numerous health benefits. This study investigates various method of paddy straw substrate bags: rolled paddy straw, intact paddy straw, and chopped paddy straw to optimize the cultivation of C. indica. Employing a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), we analysed growth parameters, yield, and biological efficiency of mushrooms cultivated on these substrates. The results indicated that chopped paddy straw was the most effective substrate, significantly reducing the time for spawn run to 14.20 days, pinhead formation to 11.80 days, and sporophore maturation to 10.20 days. This method yielded the highest overall production at 664.50 g, along with a biological efficiency of 66.45%. In contrast, intact paddy straw exhibited moderate growth performance, while rolled paddy straw resulted in the lowest yield at 451.30 g and took the longest time for all growth stages, which may be attributed to less compactness in the substrate beds. The number of sporophores produced also varied, with chopped paddy straw yielding an average of 10.6 sporophores, compared to 8.6 from intact paddy straw and 7.2 from rolled paddy straw. Although stipe length and pileus diameter showed non-significant differences among treatments, they did not contribute meaningfully to yield or biological efficiency. Overall, the findings highlight that chopped paddy straw is the most suitable substrate preparation method for cultivating C. indica, enhancing both yield and efficiency in production. This research contributes valuable insights for mushroom cultivation practices, particularly in tropical regions where high temperatures prevail.

PENGARUH PEMBERIAN BERBAGAI JENIS PUPUK ORGANIK TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN VEGETATIF TANAMAN BUAH NAGA (Hylocerios costaricensis)

The aim of this research was to determine the effect of various types of organic fertilizer on the vegetative growth of dragon fruit. The research used an experiment using the Completely Randomized Design method with four treatments A1 = Goat Manure, A2 = Cow Manure, A3 = Guano Fertilizer, A4 = Chicken Manure with four replications. The results of the research showed that the application of various kinds of organic fertilizer had a very significant effect on plant height and a significant effect on the number of branches of dragon fruit plants. Providing organic fertilizer, namely guano fertilizer and chicken manure, can provide higher plant height and a greater number of branches. It is thought that the high content of macro nutrients N, P and K can increase the vegetative growth of dragon fruit plants

Causal role of 731 immune cells in diabetic nephropathy: a bi-directional two-sample Mendelian randomization study.

The primary cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is diabetic nephropathy (DN), and a growing body of research indicates that immunology plays a part in how DN develops into ESRD. Our objective is to identify causal relationships between various immune invading cells and DN to identify possible targets for immunotherapy. This study used a complete Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis with two samples to identify the underlying mechanism linking immune cell characteristics with DN. Using publicly available genetic data, we investigated the causal link between 731 immune cell profiles and DN risk. Included were four different types of immune systems: morphological parameters (MP), absolute cell (AC), relative cell (RC), and median fluorescence intensities (MFI). The results' robustness, heterogeneity, and horizontal pleiotropy were confirmed through extensive sensitivity analysis. Following FDR (False Discovery Rate correction method) correction, no statistically significant differences were observed; however, six immunophenotypes were shown to be significantly associated with DN risk at the 0.25 level. Only CD28+ CD4- CD8- T cells were identified as the protective immunophenotype (OR = 0.588, 95% CI 0.437-0.792, P = 4.71 × 10-4). Moreover, DN had no discernible impact on immunophenotyping after FDR correction. Surprisingly, three unadjusted phenotypes with low P values were discovered to be positively correlated with the risk of DN: CD20 on IgD- CD27- B cells (OR = 1.263, 95% CI 1.076-1.482, P = 4.22 × 10-3), CD8 on naive CD8 + T cells with Effector Memory (OR = 1.107, 95% CI 1.013-1.209, P = 2.40 × 10-2), and CD8 on Effector Memory CD8 + T cells (OR = 1.126, 95% CI 1.024-1.239, P = 1.46 × 10-2). Our findings provide a genetic basis for the association between immune cells and DN and should inform future clinical research.

Standardization of Hormone-Based Seed Coating Formulation for Coriander Dosage and Formulation Optimization

Aims: This study aimed to standardize the dosage of hormone-based seed coating formulations to enhance germination and seedling growth in coriander seeds. Study Design: Completely Randomized Design. Place and Duration of Study: Department of seed science and technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India. During the year of 2023-2024. Methodology: Coriander seeds were coated with different concentrations of seed coating polymer and germination study was conducted in laboratory using rolled towel method with four replications. Data were analyzed by ANOVA with significance at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The hormone-based seed coating formulation has recorded significantly higher germination% (69%), root length (16.75 cm), shoot length (7.9 cm), dry matter production (0.058 g/10 seedlings), Vigour Index I (1706) and II (3.9) at 10 g polymer/kg of seed and 290 mL of water. Conclusion: Seed Coating with 10 seed coating formulation dissolved in 290 mL of water enhanced the seed germination and seedling growth.

Synergistic effects of gamma irradiation and butylated hydroxyanisole on the sensory, physicochemical, and microbiological quality of beef

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of gamma irradiation, in combination with the synthetic antioxidant butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), on the safety and quality characteristics of refrigerated beef. The samples were divided into four treatment groups, which were subjected to marinating with 0.01% BHA and gamma irradiation at different dosages. The treatment groups were labeled as follows: T0 (control, non-irradiated), T1 (3 kGy), T2 (5 kGy), and T3 (7 kGy). The specimens in each group were stored under refrigerated conditions at a temperature of 4°C for intervals of 0, 5, 10, or 15 days. Data analyses were conducted using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with a 4 × 4 factorial experiment. The experiment consisted of two factors, each with four treatments, and was reproduced three times with a 4-day gap. The instrumental color value CIE: lightness (L*), redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) and physicochemical properties, including pH, drip loss, cook loss, extract release volume, and water holding capacity, were analyzed. The proximate components, including dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), ash, and moisture, were found to have a significant effect (p < 0.01)(p < 0.01) among treatment groups, time intervals, and their interaction. Free fatty acids (FFA), peroxide value (POV), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) significantly increased (p < 0.01)(p < 0.01)(p < 0.01) among treatments and over the course of storage. Following the irradiation with BHA, there was a notable reduction in microbial populations and a delay in lipid oxidation. The sensory characteristics stipulated that both the control samples and the samples treated with BHA were more favored than the irradiated samples as the storage time progressed. Although treatment may cause some changes in the sensory characteristics of the meat, the samples were deemed suitable for refrigerated storage for a maximum duration of 10 days. In summary, the utilization of irradiation in conjunction with BHA presents a possible avenue for enhancing the quality and safety of refrigerated beef storage, hence offering promising applications within the meat sector.

Evaluation of the Effect of Funneliformis mosseae Inoculation on Agronomic Parameters of Maize (Zea mays L.) under a Substrate Subjected to Gold Mining

Aim: Evaluate, in a greenhouse, the effect of the AMF, Funneliformis mosseae, on the agronomic performance of maize grown on soil degraded by gold mining. Study Design: Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with six replications. Place and Duration of Study: University of Lomé, between September 2022 and January 2023. Methodology: The experiment utilized four treatment levels - pure mineral fertilizers (To), pure AMF (Funneliformis mosseae) (T1), the combination of AMF and mineral fertilizers (T2) and a control (Co) – employing a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with six replications. A pot of 5 liters capacity having received 5 kg of soil substrat (washed gold-bearing soil or soil taken under natural vegetation) composed the experimental unit. The experimental data were collected and analyzed. Results: gold-bearing soils are sandy and poor in organic and mineral compounds compared to soils under natural vegetation. The mycorrhization parameters do not take soil type into account. On average, 73.62 % of plants in simple inoculation were mycorrhized where as 33.43 % of plants were mycorrhized in inoculation with a synthetic fertilizer (NPK+Urea) at 60 days after sowing. The respective mycorrhization intensities corresponding to these mycorrhization rates are 41.43 and 45.67 % for the same period. The inoculation with AMF affect positively the growth, development and the productivity of maize compared to the control. Conclusion: Results suggest that Funneliformis mosseae can be used as a biofertilizer on gold mining soils in Togo for sustainable maize production.

Assessing the Impact of Casing Material Thickness on Yield and Biological Efficiency of Milky Mushroom (Calocybe indica P&amp;C)

Calocybe indica, known as the milky mushroom, has significant potential for agricultural expansion and economic development, particularly in West Bengal, India. This study investigates the impact of different casing material thicknesses (0.5”, 0.75”, 1.0”, and 1.5”) on the yield and biological efficiency of C. indica. Using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), the effects on primordia initiation, sporophore maturation, yield, and biological efficiency were assessed. Results indicated that a casing thickness of 1.0” was optimal, leading to the quickest primordia initiation (10.4 days) and sporophore maturation (9 days), and yielding the highest total yield (717.5 g) and biological efficiency (71.75%). In contrast, thinner and thicker casings resulted in lower yields and efficiencies. The findings suggest that a 1.0” casing thickness significantly enhances C. indica cultivation, providing practical recommendations for commercial mushroom farming. This optimization can support the development of milky mushroom farming in West Bengal, offering new opportunities for local farmers and contributing to regional agricultural diversification and economic growth.

Effect of Cutting Type, Potting Media, and Irrigation Frequency on the Success of Vegetative Propagation of Iriweriya (&lt;em&gt;Plectranthus Zeylanicus&lt;/em&gt; Forssk)

Plectranthus zeylanicus is an indigenous, multi-functional herb used in traditional medicine. Due to over-exploitation from the natural habitats, the species is on the verge of extinction. Therefore, commercial cultivation of the species is needed to satisfy the rising demand while protecting its genetic base. The current study was designed with three trials to identify the most suitable cutting type, potting media, and irrigation schedule for P. zeylanicus. Four distinct cutting types (tip cutting, triple nodal cutting, double nodal cutting and single nodal cutting), five different potting mixtures (topsoil: sand: compost-1:1:1, topsoil: sand: compost-1:2:1, topsoil: sand: compost-1:1:2, topsoil: compost -1:1, topsoil: compost-1:2) and four different irrigation schedules (daily watering to field capacity level, daily watering to half of the field capacity level, every other day to the field capacity level, every other day to half of the field capacity level) were used in Completely Randomized Design with ten replicates. Survival percentage (%), number of leaves, the height of the plant (cm), average length of roots (cm), average leaf area (mm2), and chlorophyll content (SPAD Unit) were measured as growth parameters. Data were analyzed using SAS software with a 5% significance levels. Highest survival percentage (95%), highest average root length (26.8 cm), average leaf area (80.5 mm2) and a higher chlorophyll content (31.1 SPAD Unit) were recorded from tip cuttings of P. zeylanicus. Furthermore, the topsoil: sand: compost-1:1:1 combination showed a higher survival percentage (90%), number of leaves (3), highest average plant height (43.9cm) and average root length (20.2 cm) with significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher average leaf area (52.3 mm2) and chlorophyll content (31.07 SPAD Unit). Daily watering to the field capacity showed a higher survival percentage (90%), significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) number of leaves (3.7), plant height (51.6 cm), higher root length (25.5 cm), the highest average leaf area (80.0 mm2) and chlorophyll content (32.7 SPAD Unit). Therefore, tip-cutting planted in topsoil: sand: compost-1:1:1 media can be recommended for successful propagation of P. zeylanicus.