Increase In Growth Parameters Research Articles

Local signal from Trichoderma afroharzianum T22 induces host transcriptome and endophytic microbiome leading to growth promotion in sorghum.

Trichoderma, a highly abundant soil fungus, may benefit plants, yet it remains understudied in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor). In this study, sorghum plants were cultivated for five weeks in soil pots with or without the inoculation of T. afroharzianum T22. We found that plants inoculated with T. afroharzianum T22 exhibited significant increases in growth parameters and nutrient levels, demonstrating its beneficial role in sorghum. The split-root assay demonstrated that T. afroharzianum T22 is essential in both compartments of soil pots for promoting plant growth. This suggests that local signals from this fungus drive symbiotic benefits in sorghum. The RNA-seq analysis revealed the induction of genes responsible for mineral transport (such as nitrate and aquaporin transporters), auxin response, sugar assimilation (hexokinase), and disease resistance (thaumatin) in the roots of sorghum inoculated with T. afroharzianum T22. Microbial community analysis further unveiled the positive role of T. afroharzianum T22 in enriching Penicillium (ITS) and Streptomyces (16S) while reducing disease-causing Fusarium in the roots. The microbial consortium, consisting of enriched microbiomes from bacterial and fungal communities, showed disrupted morphological features in plants inoculated with T. afroharzianum T22 in the absence of S. griseus. However, this disruption was not observed in the absence of P. chrysogenum. These results suggest that S. griseus may act as a helper microbe in close association with T. afroharzianum T22 in the sorghum endosphere. This study provides the first comprehensive explanation of how T. afroharzianum T22 modulates host molecular determinants and endophytic helper microbes, thereby collectively promoting sorghum growth. These findings may encourage the formulation of a synthetic inoculum dominated by T. afroharzianum T22 to enhance growth and stress resilience in sorghum and other similar crops.

Antioxidant and biofertilizing effect of compost extracts on horticultural crops to minimize the use of agrochemicals

Excessive chemical fertilizers harm the environment, economy, and health, while compost and its extracts provide a sustainable solution. Consequently, the development of liquid organic amendments with biofertilizing and antioxidant capabilities is of significant interest in intensive agriculture. To achieve this, four Compost Extraction Protocols (CEP1–4) were applied to different compost to obtain a range of aqueous extracts. These treatments varied in temperature, incubation duration, and agitation. The raw materials for the compost used were Agri-food Waste (AW), Sewage Sludge (SS), Vegetable Waste (VW), and Olive Mill Waste (OMW). The extracts were characterized in physicochemical terms and their potential to promote radicle germination in cucumber and lettuce seeds. Additionally, counts of microbial groups associated with biofertilizing capacity were conducted. Three extracts were chosen based on the germination index to conduct an in vivo bioassay on seedlings. Finally, oxidative stress in radicles and seedlings resulting from the preceding tests was evaluated by quantifying malondialdehyde (MDA), total phenolic compounds (TPC), and ascorbate-glutathione cycle enzymes. The results established that protocols with milder temperatures, such as CEP1 and CEP4, yielded aqueous compost extracts with good biofertilizing and antioxidant properties, although the effect was dependent on crop sensitivity. Specifically, the extracts selected for the seedling trial, OMW-A CEP4, AW-A CEP1, and especially AW-A CEP4, demonstrated a remarkable biofertilizing and antioxidant properties in lettuce, by increasing growth parameters and TPC while decreasing MDA. The results indicate that aqueous compost extracts are a suitable alternative to reduce the consumption of chemical fertilizers.

Optimizing leaf nutrient status, growth, and yield parameters in high-density apple orchards (cv. Super chief) via integrated drip irrigation and fertigation techniques

Nutrients and water are important ecophysiological components for apples' development and productivity. The combination of high-density plantation, drip irrigation, and weekly fertigation not only conserves irrigation water, but also reduces cultivation costs compared to conventional methods. Leaf nutrient analysis provides insight into nutrient levels and assists in determining irrigation and fertigation schedules. We conducted the current research over two years (2021–22 and 2022–23) to evaluate different drip-fertigation effects on leaf nutrient status, vegetative growth, and yield of high-density apples. The experimental study employed a factorial randomised block design, replicating 16 different treatment combinations three times each. Each replication consisted of three plants, and the treatments included four irrigation levels (100 %, 80 %, 60 %, and control) and four fertigation levels (absolute control, 100 %, 75 %, and 50 % of the recommended NPK dosage). Analysis of the leaves indicated that IR1 (Drip irrigation at 100 % ETc) showed notably higher levels of nitrogen at (3.06 %), phosphorus at (0.48 %) and potassium at (2.07 %) compared to other treatments. Regarding fertigation levels, FN1 [100 % (AD) NPK] showed the highest nitrogen (3.12 %), phosphorus (0.50 %), and potassium (2.09 %) content. Parameters related to vegetative growth, including tree height, plant spread in both east-west (EW) and north-south (NS) directions, trunk girth, annual extension growth, and leaf area showed significant increases with higher irrigation and fertigation levels, surpassing conventional irrigation (IR4) by 6.17 percent, 7.78 percent (EW), 8.62 percent (NS), 10.49 percent, 4.53 percent and 1.96 percent, respectively. Among fertigation, FN1- 100 % AD (NPK) registered a maximum increase in growth parameters. Our analysis demonstrated that combining irrigation and fertigation improved leaf nutrient status and vegetative growth characteristics, which are critical determinants of fruit yield.

Improvement in Plant Growth, Yield, and Fruit Quality with Biostimulant Treatment in Organic Strawberry Cultivation

The excessive use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture not only causes a decrease in soil fertility but also has negative effects on the environment, natural resources, and human health. Therefore, environmentally friendly practices, such as the use of organic fertilizers (OFs) and plant biostimulants that increase yield and fruit quality can be effective in solving these problems. In the present research study, we investigated the impact of using an OF alone and in combination with as a biostimulant different doses of humic acid (HA) on plant growth parameters, yield, fruit characteristics, and leaf mineral nutrient concentrations in plants of the Monterey and Albion strawberry varieties. As a result of this study, we determined that the combined application of the OF and HA increased the yield, fruit quality, plant growth, and nutritional elements in the crop compared with using the OF alone. In addition, the Monterey variety plants treated with OF and HA (5.0 L·ha−1) in T3 offered the best results among the different treatment groups and varieties. With this treatment, we obtained the highest total yield (262.42 g/plant), fruit weight, total soluble solids (TSS), and TSS/acid ratio, as well as increased growth parameters, and mineral nutrient concentrations in leaves. These results are hopeful for enhancing organic strawberry production.

Reduced Chemical Fertilizer Combined with Vermicompost Application Affects the Growth, Yield, and Quality of Watermelon

Continuous application of chemical fertilizers in plant cultivation can lead to the deterioration of the soil environment, resulting in reduced crop yield and quality. Currently, organic fertilizers, such as vermicompost, can partially replace chemical fertilizers and maximize yields while maintaining soil fertility. However, the effects of chemical fertilizers combined with vermicompost on watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) yield and quality are unclear. A field experiment was carried out on the watermelon cultivar Lihua No. 6. Six treatments were applied: no fertilizer (CK, control, 0N–0P–0K), 100% chemical fertilizer [CF, 5.4N–1P–5.4K (256, 47, and 255 kg·ha−1)], 75% chemical fertilizer + 25% organic fertilizer [A1, 5.4N–1P–5.4K (192, 35, and 191 kg·ha−1) + 2250 kg·ha−1 vermicompost], 50% chemical fertilizer + 50% organic fertilizer [A2, 5.4N–1P–5.4K (128, 24, and 127 kg·ha−1) + 4500 kg·ha−1 vermicompost], 25% chemical fertilizer + 75% organic fertilizer [A3, 5.4N–1P–5.4K (64, 12, and 64 kg·ha−1) + 6750 kg·ha−1 vermicompost], and 100% organic fertilizer (A4, 9000 kg·ha−1 vermicompost). Indices related to the growth, yield, and quality of watermelons were determined. Compared with CK, chemical fertilizer alone or in combination with organic fertilizers significantly increased growth parameters (plant height and leaf area) and chlorophyll content. The five fertilizer treatments enhanced the single fruit weight, yield, and biomass. In addition, the yield of reduced chemical fertilizer plus organic fertilizer was comparable to that of watermelons treated with CF. Compared with CF, the fertilizer treatments, especially the 1:1 mixture of chemical and organic fertilizer (A2) group, had elevated fruit-soluble solids and soluble sugar content, and reduced organic acid levels. Therefore, a combination of 50% chemical fertilizer and 50% organic fertilizer can effectively enhance the yield and quality of watermelons. These findings have important implications for guiding the management of watermelon fertilization and development of sustainable agriculture.

IMPACT OF DIFFERENT ORGANIC AND INORGANIC AMENDMENTS ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF MUNG BEAN IRRIGATED WITH TEXTILE EFFLUENTS

Water is an important substance for all life on earth, and it is essential for human beings, financial improvement, and the existence of ecological units. The quality and quantity of the water supply is very important, especially during irrigation. Due to the extensive measurement of water and colour associated with the manufacturing process, textile printing, and dyeing production lines around the world pose a major environmental risk. Textile wastewater contains a lot of pollutants including pH, temperature, shade, COD, BOD, TSS, TDS, EC, and heavy metals. This textile runoff continues to irrigate agricultural land, causing contamination of soils and plant systems with heavy metals. Therefore, adding organic and inorganic modifiers to soil is an effective technique for fixing heavy metals. Irrigate pots with textile wastewater of selected concentrations (10%, 25%, 50%, and 100%) collected in specific industrial sectors. The parameters of vegetative growth are reduced by increasing the concentration of textile effluent. Note the substantial reduction in the growth of plants applying wastewater at 100% concentration. In the case of T5, a significant increase in growth parameters was observed, where only tap water was used to pressurize the sludge, while dilute wastewater also enhanced growth at concentrations of 10% and 25%. For the chlorophyll content of mung bean plants, when the wastewater concentration is 100%, the recorded decrease is greater, followed by 10% and 25% respectively. The presence of heavy metals in wastewater reduces plant growth. In the experiment, all four treatments contained organic amendments (pressed sludge, poultry manure, biogas slurry, and farmyard manure). The other four treatment methods are pressure treatment of textile wastewater and the amount of organic modifier is 2%. By adding a correcting agent, the utilization rate of Cr is reduced, as the correcting agent will increase the pH of the soil, thus reducing the solubility of the metal. In addition, Cr can form insoluble complexes with organic materials, thus reducing its solubility.

Characterization of Bacillus velezensis DCJ 2 isolated from the rhizosphere soil of aglaonema ‘Maria’ and investigation of its plant growth-promoting effects

Aglaonema ‘Maria’ is one of the key foliage plants that has gained high demand in foreign destinations in the last few years. This study was conducted to characterize Bacillus velezensis DCJ 2, assess its plant growth promotion effect and investigate the effectiveness of different delivery methods of the bacterial inoculum for the growth promotion of Aglaonema ‘Maria’. In this context, DCJ 2, isolated from the rhizosphere soil of A. Maria was screened to investigate its potential as a plant growth-promoting bacterium. The pure culture of DCJ 2 maintained on nutrient agar was utilized for morphological, biochemical and physiological examinations. The molecular characterization of the strain was performed with different primer pairs targeting 16SrRNA, gyrA, pgsB and sugar kinase genes of DCJ 2. A pot experiment was carried out to investigate the plant growth promotion effect. It was conducted in the greenhouse as per the complete randomized block design with eight treatments and five replicates. . Healthy plants of A. ‘Maria’ established in field soil and solarized soil were treated with 100 ml of the suspension of the DCJ 2 at the rate of 10 8 CFU/ml either as a soil drench or foliar spray. The partial 16SrRNA, gyrA, pgsB and sugar kinase gene sequences of DCJ 2, BLAST searched in the NCBI database revealed that it has a high similarity to Bacillus velezensis. The pot experiment showed that the application of strain DCJ 2 as a soil drench to solarized soil (Treatment 6) yielded a significant increase in growth parameters at p=0.05. Based on molecular analysis, morphological, biochemical, and physiological reactions, DCJ 2 was identified as Bacillus velezensis. This study revealed that B. velezensis DCJ 2 has the potential to boost the growth of A. Maria and hence serve as a base for developing a biofertilizer.

How does water stress affect the bioaccumulation of galanthamine and lycorine, growth performance, phenolic content and defense enzyme activities in summer snowflake (Leucojum aestivum L.)?

Leucojum aestivum L. is an Amaryllidaceae bulbous plant with two alkaloids that have remarkable medicinal potential: galanthamine and lycorine. Although the presence of galanthamine in L. aestivum has commercial value for the pharmaceutical industry and the effect of water stress (WS) applications on secondary metabolite enhancement is well established in a variety of plants, no studies have been carried out to reveal the effectiveness of WS on this beneficial medicinal plant. Objective of the study was to investigate the effects of eight different WS treatments [Control, waterlogging (WL) condition, and drought stress conditions (water deficiency generated by water deficit irrigation-WDI 25%, 50%, and 75%- and polyethylene glycol-PEG 6000 15%, 30%, and 45%-)] on growth parameters, alkaloid levels (galanthamine and lycorine), non-enzymatic antioxidant activities (total phenol-flavonoid content and free radical scavenging activity), and enzymatic antioxidant activities [superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)] of L. aestivum in a pot experiment. Based on the findings, maximum increases in growth parameters were obtained with PEG-induced WS treatments. Moderate water deficiency (50% WDI) produced the highest levels of galanthamine and lycorine, total phenol-flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity, along with moderately elevated CAT activity in the bulbs. All WS treatments resulted in increased CAT activity in the bulbs. It was observed that bulbs had higher SOD and CAT activities under WL conditions had lower fresh weights and were close to control in terms of alkaloid levels, total phenol-flavonoid content, and free radical scavenging activity. When all of the outcomes were taken into account, it can be concluded that moderate water-deficit stress (50% WDI) was regarded as the most effective treatment for increasing the pharmaceutical value of L. aestivum.Graphical abstract

Brown macro-seaweeds derived agro-biostimulant for Zea mays farming in saline conditions: Growth enhancement and optimum biochemical and ion feedback

Salinity negatively affects maize growth, a cereal crop and used as a vital source of food production. Seaweeds are macro-aquatic biocatalysts and might act as a promising biostimulant for conferring crop salinity resistance by providing essential nutrients and growth-promoting regulators. This study was designed for the first time to examine the effects of two commonly found seaweeds, Iyengaria stellata and Colpomenia sinuosa, on the growth of maize under 0, 100, and 200 mM NaCl application. Plants treated with both salinities reduced plant growth, but the application of seaweed I. stellata and C. sinuosa significantly increased growth parameters, especially plant biomass (fresh and dry), length (root and shoot), and total plant height than other treatments. In addition, higher growth under seaweed amends was supported by improved chlorophyll, carbohydrates, carotenoids, and polyphenols as well as lower electrolyte leakages to escape from oxidative stress. Plants treated with both algal species enhanced Na+ and K+, which is important for osmotic balance and precise ion homeostasis and could be effective for optimum leaf metabolism for growth resilience of maize plants under saline-stress conditions. This study emphasizes the potential of C. sinuosa and I. stellata as effective biostimulants. They offer a sustainable approach to cultivating climate-resilient maize that can thrive in salt-affected environments.

Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity of Neem Cake and Bio-Agents on Early Blight (Alternaria solani) of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.)

Early blight is the important disease of tomato because it causes huge economic loss to the farmer every year. Alternaria solani cause early blight of tomato and it is considered weed of field because of its wide adaptability under different environment. Use of fungicides for the management of disease in crop puts a large number of negative health and environmental effects therefore, the urgent need for a more sustainable and ecological approach to manage disease without fungicides. To avoid relying solely on chemicals and to identify a viable alternative component,this experiment was conducted to conclude the Evaluation of antimicrobial activity of Neem cake and bio-agents on early blight (Alternaria solani) of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) by soil application with Neem cake @ 250kg/ha and seedling treatment with bio agents in single and combination viz Pseudomonas fluorescens @10g/lit, Bacillu thuringiensis @10g/lit, Trichoderma viride @10g/lit, Pseudomonas fluorescens@5g/lit +Bacillus thuringiensis @5g/lit, Pseudomonas fluorescens@5g/lit + Trichoderma viride @5g/lit and Trichoderma viride @ 5g/lit + Bacillus thuringiensis @5g/lit both in-vivo and in-vitro for their effectiveness to manage early blight of tomato caused by Alternaria solani .All the treatments were found significantly reduced the severity of the disease and increased growth parameters, Among all the treatments Neem cake@250kg/ha+ Pseudomonas fluorescens @5g/lit + Trichoderma viride @ 5g/lit followed by Neem cake@250kg/ha + Trichoderma viride @5g/lit + Bacillus thuringiensis @5g/lit were significantly superior over other treatments in reducing early blight infection and also in increasing growth parameters of the crop. For in-vitro studies only bio agents were selected among the treatments Pseudomonas fluorescens + Trichoderma viride showed highest mycelia inhibition (89.3%) followed by Trichoderma viride + Bacillus thuringiensis (86.6%). The highest cost benefit ratio was obtained with Neem cake 250kg/ha + Pseudomonas fluorescens @5g/lit + Trichoderma viride @5g/lit treatment (1:3.85). while other treatments also showed significantly effective for the checking of disease intensity and yield over control in the field condition.

Integrated approaches for heavy metal-contaminated soil remediation: harnessing the potential of Paulownia elongata S. Y. Hu, Oscillatoria sp., arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Glomus mosseae and Glomus intraradices), and iron nanoparticles.

In recent years, researchers have extensively investigated the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil using plants, microorganisms, and iron nanoparticles. The objective of this study was to investigate and compare the individual and simultaneous effects of Paulownia elongata S. Y. Hu, cyanobacteria (Oscillatoria sp.), arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) including Glomus mosseae and Glomus intraradices, and zero-valent iron nanoparticles (nZVI) on the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil containing chromium (Cr VI and Cr III) and nickel (Ni). The study found significant variations in parameters such as pH (acidity), electrical conductivity (EC), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and organic carbon (OC) among different treatments. The addition of cyanobacteria, AMF, and nZVI influenced these properties, resulting in both increases and decreases compared to the control treatment. The treatment involving a combination of cyanobacteria, AMF, and nZVI (CCAN25) exhibited the highest increase in growth parameters, such as total dry mass, root length, stem diameter, and leaf area, while other treatments showed varied effects on plant growth. Moreover, the CCAN25 treatment demonstrated the highest increase in chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoid levels, whereas other treatments displayed reductions in these pigments compared to the control. Moderate phytoaccumulation of Cr and Ni in P. elongata samples across all treatments was observed, as indicated by the bioconcentration factor and bioaccumulation coefficient values being less than 1.0 for both metals. The findings provide insights into the potential application of these treatments for soil remediation and plant growth enhancement in contaminated environments.

Bioformulation of Bacillus proteolyticus MITWPUB1 and its biosurfactant to control the growth of phytopathogen Sclerotium rolfsii for the crop Brassica juncea var local, as a sustainable approach.

Bacillus proteolyticus MITWPUB1 is a potential producer of biosurfactants (BSs), and the organism is also found to be a producer of plant growth promoting traits, such as hydrogen cyanide and indole acetic acid (IAA), and a solubilizer of phosphate. The BSs were reportedly a blend of two classes, namely glycolipids and lipopeptides, as found by thin layer chromatography and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. Furthermore, semi-targeted metabolite profiling via liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy revealed the presence of phospholipids, lipopeptides, polyamines, IAA derivatives, and carotenoids. The BS showed dose-dependent antagonistic activity against Sclerotium rolfsii; scanning electron microscopy showed the effects of the BS on S. rolfsii in terms of mycelial deformations and reduced branching patterns. In vitro studies showed that the application of B. proteolyticus MITWPUB1 and its biosurfactant to seeds of Brassica juncea var local enhanced the seed germination rate. However, sawdust-carrier-based bioformulation with B. proteolyticus MITWPUB1 and its BS showed increased growth parameters for B. juncea var L. This study highlights a unique bioformulation combination that controls the growth of the phytopathogen S. rolfsii and enhances the plant growth of B. juncea var L. Bacillus proteolyticus MITWPUB1 was also shown for the first time to be a prominent BS producer with the ability to control the growth of the phytopathogen S. rolfsii.

Calcium oxide nanoparticles mitigate lead stress in Abelmoschus esculentus though improving the key antioxidative enzymes, nutritional content and modulation of stress markers

Lead (Pb) is thought to be one of most injurious metals on the earth. Lead stress in plants enhances synthesis of highly toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS). During present research, impact of calcium-oxide nanoparticles (CaO-NPs) was observed on antioxidative defense mechanism in Abelmoschus esculentus plants prone to Pb stress. A CRD experiment was employed with 5 replicates having four treatments (T0 = Control, T1 = Pb stress (200 ppm), T2 = CaO-NPs and T3 = Pb + CaO-NPs). Pb-stressed seedlings exhibited decreased root growth, shoot growth, chlorophyll concentration and biomass accumulation. Moreover, higher synthesis of hydrogen-peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA) and electrolyte leakage (EL) resulting in cellular injuries were noted in plants growing in Pb spiked conditions. Similarly, stressed plants showed higher accumulation of total soluble sugar and proline content besides elevated activity of antioxidative enzymes counting catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). On the contrary side, CaO-NPs alleviated the Pb induced phytotoxicity through improving activity of antioxidative enzymes. The elevated activity of antioxidant enzymes reduced biosynthesis of H2O2 and MDA which was revealed through the increased growth parameters. In addition, CaO-NPs persuaded enhancement in plant defence machinery by decreased chlorophyll deprivation and augmented the uptake of plant nutrients including K and Ca content. Hence, CaO-NPs can be potent regulators of the antioxidative enzymes and stress markers to ameliorate abiotic stresses.

Efficacy of different organic and inorganic nutrient sources on the growth and yield of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.)

The cultivation of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) in Nepal faces significant challenges, resulting in diminished yields compared with other regions. The pivotal issue is optimizing fertilizer management practices to enhance bitter gourd growth and yield. In April 2022, a field experiment was conducted in Kapilvastu, Nepal to investigate the efficacy of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth and yield of bitter gourd. The study included five treatments: the recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) fertilizer (111.66:54.56:35.36 NPK kg ha−1, and 29.49 t ha−1 farmyard manure), 100 % poultry manure, 100 % farmyard manure, 50 % NPK + 50 % poultry manure, and 50 % NPK + 50 % farmyard manure. We hypothesized that a blend of 50 % organic and 50 % inorganic manure would significantly enhance bitter gourd performance. These treatments were evaluated in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications and analyzed using R-Studio. The results showed that 50 % NPK +50 % poultry manure increased growth parameters, such as plant height (380 cm), branch count plant−1 (22), node count plant−1 (34.75), female flower count (50.50), fruit length plant−1 (24.75 cm), and fruit diameter (6.53 cm), and decreased male flower count (132.25) and days to first male (33.75) and female (36.25) flowering. The application of 50 % NPK and 50 % poultry manure increased individual fruit weight (274.50 g) and yield-attributing traits, such as fruit count (17.25), fruit yield (55.56 t ha−1), net return (7944$), and benefit-cost ratio (3.14). A synergistic blend of 50 % NPK and 50 % poultry manure can serve as a viable and effective nutrient source for promoting growth and maximizing bitter gourd yield. Although these results are promising, further validation and extension of these positive findings are required on a larger scale in diverse ecological regions.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management and Agronomic Biofortification on Growth and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum. L.)

A field experiment was conducted at Students’ Instructional Farm of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology Kanpur, (U.P.) to assess the effect of organic source with foliar application of micronutrients on growth and yield of wheat for two consecutive years (2021-22) and (2022-23).The experiment comprises three treatment under main plot viz: F1- Control (100% RDF), F2- 100 % RDF + Vermicompost @ 2.5t/ha, and F3- 100 % RDF + FYM @ 5t/ha, and five treatments foliar spray of micronutrient in sub plot viz: M1- control (No spray), M2- Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages, M3- Foliar spray of Nano Zinc @ 0.5% spray at tillering and booting stages, M4- Foliar spray of FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages and M5- Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% + FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages. Fifteen treatment combination were assigned under Split Plot Design (SPD) and replicated thrice. Wheat variety (K- 1006) was grown with the recommended agronomic practices. Results showed that maximum increase in growth parameters and yield and yield attribute of wheat viz: plant height (cm), number of tillers/m2, leaf area index and spike length (cm), number of spikelets /spike and harvest index (%) and biological yield (ton ha-) recorded significantly higher with F2- 100 % RDF + Vermicompost @ 2.5t/ha treatments Among the sub-plot , M5- Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% + FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages, produced significant maximum highest harvest index (42.77 %) and biological yield (13.88 ton /ha) as compared to all other treatments.

Performance of Integrated Nutrient Management and Foliar Spray of Micronutrients on Growth, Yield Attribute and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

A field experiment was conducted during two rabi seasons of 2021-2022 and 2022-23 at Students’ Instructional Farm of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology Kanpur, (U.P.) The experiment was caried out in SPD (Split Plot Design) with fifteen treatment combination were replication thrice. fifteen treatment treatments combination consisted of three organic manure + RDF nutrient source (Control (100% RDF), 100 % RDF + Vermicompost @ 2.5t/ha, and 100 % RDF + FYM @ 5t/ha) put under main plot and five foliar spray of micronutrient control (No spray),Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages, Foliar spray of Nano Zinc @ 0.5% at tillering and booting stages, Foliar spray of FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages and M5- Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% + FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages) allotted under sub plot. The study on yield attribute and yield of wheat. The result showed that the maximum increase growth parameters, yield attribute and yield of wheat viz plant height (cm), number of tillers/m2, and leaf area index and number of grain/spike, number spike/m2, total grain weight spike (g) and test weight (1000 grain weight) (g) and grain yield (t/ha) and straw yield (t/ha) recorded significantly higher with F2- 100 % RDF + Vermicompost @ 2.5t/ha treatments. Among the sub plot, M5- foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% + FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages produced significantly maximum highest grain yield (5.95 t/ha) and straw yield (7.94 t/ha)

Crucial roles of trehalose and 5-azacytidine in alleviating salt stress in tomato: Both synergistically and independently

Trehalose may improve plant stress tolerance by regulating gene expression under different abiotic stresses. DNA methylation is involved in plant growth and development, but also in response to abiotic stresses. 5-azacytidine is a widely used inhibitor of DNA methylation. In this study, tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. ‘Ailsa Craig’) was used as experimental material to explore the effects of trehalose and DNA methylation on the growth and development in tomato seedlings under salt stress. 10 mM trehalose, 50 μM 5-azacytidine, and their combined treatments could significantly increase growth parameters in tomato under salt stress, indicating trehalose and 5-azacytidine might play crucial roles in alleviating salt stress both synergistically and independently. Additionally, trehalose significantly down-regulated the expression of DNA methylase genes (SlDRM5, SlDRM1L1, SlCMT3 and SlCMT2) and up-regulated the expression of DNA demethylases genes under salt stress, suggesting that trehalose might regulate DNA methylation under salt stress condition. Under salt stress, trehalose and 5-azacytidine treatments enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity and induced antioxidant enzyme gene expression in tomato seedlings. Meanwhile, trehalose and 5-azacytidine increased ABA content by regulating the expression of ABA metabolism-related genes, thereby enhancing salt tolerance in tomato. Altogether, these results suggest that trehalose conferred salt tolerance in tomato seedlings probably by DNA demethylation and enhancing antioxidant capability and ABA accumulation.

Evaluation of Morphological Growth Response of Abelmoschus esculentus (Okra) to Simple Organic Supplements

Soil health and nutrient availability are important for sustaining crop productivity and increasing yield. Farmers have practiced fortifyingsoil using various supplements (organic and inorganic, natural and synthetic) since the advent of modern agriculture. However, addinginorganic fertilizers, weedicides and pesticides has adversely affected our agroecosystems. Harmful chemicals from synthetic fertilizersget accumulated in soil and plant parts, causing serious health problems. The synthetic agri-products have detrimental effects onsoil fertility and soil microbiota, making the soil less fertile and unsuitable for cultivation. In the last decade, a paradigm shift in agripracticeshas occurred and organic farming has become a popular sustainable option to improve soil health and achieve sustainabledevelopment goals.The potential of various organic supplements has been studied in the present investigation on the growth parameters of an importantvegetable crop okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) valued for its multipurpose uses in various parts of the country. Pure line seeds of okravariety Arka Anamika were surface sterilized and used for the study. Plants were raised in plastic pots (10 inches) filled with soil treatedwith leaf compost, foliar spray (Gibberellic acid, 0.001%) and pine bark mulch. Garden soil without organic supplements served asa control. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with three replications. An increase in the vegetativegrowth parameters and in reproductive parameters in all the treatments as compared to control was observed in the plants. Though alltreatments showed an increase in growth parameters, a significant increase was observed with mulch, suggesting that the mulch derivedfrom organic waste and residues have immense potential in improving crop health by making them more robust, and enhancing theyield. Investigating the amelioration of soil physico-chemical properties with these organic supplements and understanding their role inbetter crop performance is beneficial for the farmers. The present study also provides simple, sustainable, and eco-friendly biofertilizerpotential of self-prepared pine bark mulch for vegetable crops.

Secular trends in the anthropometric characteristics of children in a rural community in Yucatan, Mexico.

To analyze changes in height, weight, and body mass index (BMI = kg/m2 ) from 1986 to 2022 in 3-11 year old children from Dzeal, a rural Maya community in Yucatan, Mexico. From October-2022 to February-2023 (third-wave survey), we obtained anthropometric measurements of children (n = 80) and family socioeconomic data and compared them with data obtained in 1986 (n = 38) and 2000 (n = 76). Comparisons of anthropometric parameters by sex between years of measurement were performed graphically and through one-way ANOVA, splitting children into two age groups: 3-7 and 8-11. Bonferroni adjustments for multiple comparisons were used when ANOVAs were statistically significant (p < .05). In girls, significant increases in height and weight between surveys were found in 3-7 and 8-11 age groups; in boys, significant increases were only found in the 8-11 age group. Regarding BMI, there were increases in 2022 compared with 1986/2000 in both sexes from 8 years onwards. Differences indicate increases of 3.9 and 4.4 cm per decade in girls aged 3-7 and 8-11, respectively, and increases in weight of 1.1 and 3.3 kg per decade, respectively. Increases in boys 8-11 years were 2.3 cm and 2.4 kg per decade. Significant increases in growth parameters were observed in specific-age children in the community studied in the context of changes in livelihoods and improvements in household material conditions.

Entrophospora etunicata: A mycorrhizal biostimulant with the potential to enhance the production of bioactive health-promoting compounds in leaves of Capsicum chinense seedlings

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are known to benefit pepper species, but there are no reports of such efficiency in Capsicum chinense, one of the most valuable commercial plant species. Therefore, this study aimed to select an efficient mycorrhizal biostimulant to increase the production of secondary compounds and the antioxidant activity in C. chinense leaves. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse with four mycorrhizal inoculation treatments (control without AMF, seedlings inoculated with Entrophospora etunicata, Acaulospora longula, and Gigaspora albida). After 120 days, agronomic growth parameters, production of primary and secondary metabolites, and foliar antioxidant activity were evaluated. Capsicum chinense seedlings inoculated with E. etunicata had increases in growth parameters ranging from 27 to 133% compared to the non-inoculated control, depending on the variable considered. Pepper seedlings associated with E. etunicata produced 77%, 147%, 140%, and 136% more soluble carbohydrates, total proanthocyanidins, total phenols, and total saponins, respectively, compared to those not inoculated. Such benefits were also reported for total proteins and total foliar flavonoids. On the other hand, this AMF was ineffective in enhancing the accumulation of alkaloids. It is concluded that E. etunicata is an alternative for improving the production of C. chinense seedlings and enhancing the anabolism of health-promoting bioactive compounds in the phytomass to be offered to the herbal medicine industry. This is the first report on the potential of mycorrhizal inoculation to optimize secondary anabolism in C. chinense leaves.