Analysis Of Nutrient Content Research Articles

Standardization of Panchagavya for Enhanced Nutrient Content and Seed Germination in Sustainable Organic Farming

The detrimental effects of chemical-intensive agriculture have spurred interest in eco-friendly farming practices, particularly organic farming. Central to organic farming are organic manures, including various liquid organic formulations such as Panchagavya, which are rooted in Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK). Due to the variability in local production methodologies, there is a pressing need to standardize the production techniques of liquid organic manures, specifically Panchagavya, and to characterize their properties. The study standardizes Panchagavya production to reduce local variability. Eight ingredients were used, with 81 different combinations. Physical and chemical properties of prepared Panchagavya were analyzed, and principal component analysis was performed to determine optimal combinations for improved soil health and crop productivity. The nitrogen content of different combinations of Panchagavya ranged from 1.12% to 2.66%, phosphorus between 0.12% to 0.385%, potassium between 0.345% to 0.65%. The Ca content ranged between 186.3 mg L⁻¹ and 256.66 mg L⁻¹. Mg content the range was between 52.1 mg L-1 to 92.4 mg mg L-1, S varies between 0.08% and 0.3%, the Fe content in Panchagavya ranged from 49.7 mg L⁻¹ to 53.1 mg L⁻¹, Mn content ranged from 2.60 mg L⁻¹ to 5.05 mg L⁻¹, Zn content ranged from 4.1 mg L⁻¹ to 6.35 mg L⁻¹, and Cu content ranged from 12.50 mg L⁻¹ to 14.95 mg L⁻¹. with higher levels associated with increased quantities of cow urine, milk, curd, and ghee. Germination study indicated that Panchagavya positively affected seed germination and root growth increased from 3.45% to 114.66%. The growth hormone indole acetic acid values was between 56.6 µg mL⁻¹ and 104.19 µg mL⁻¹. Similarly, the gibberellic acid values ranged from 138.34 µg mL⁻¹ to 185.23 µg mL⁻¹. From the 81 treatment 10 best treatment was selected by principle component analysis of nutrient content of Panchagavya. Microbial analysis of selected Panchagavya demonstrated significant populations: bacteria (7.57 to 8.03 log cfu mL⁻¹), fungi (4.3 to 4.73 log cfu mL⁻¹), and actinomycetes (3.15 to 3.9 log cfu mL⁻¹). The presence of IAA and GA further substantiates its efficacy as an organic fertilizer. This research confirms that Panchagavya enhances nutrient content, microbial activity, and hormone levels, resulting in improved seed germination and root development. These findings highlight its potential as a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, promoting organic farming practices and contributing to healthier soils.

Promoting tomato resilience: effects of ascorbic acid and sulfur-treated biochar in saline and non-saline cultivation environments

The resilience of tomato plants under different cultivation environments, particularly saline and non-saline conditions, was investigated by applying various treatments, including 0.5% Ascorbic Acid (AsA) and 1% Sulphur-treated Biochar (BS). The study evaluated parameters such as fruit length, diameter, yield per plant and pot, Total Soluble Solids (TSS) content, chlorophyll content, electrolyte leakage, enzyme activities (Superoxide Dismutase - SOD, Peroxidase - POD, Catalase - CAT), and nutrient content (Nitrogen - N%, Phosphorus - P%, Potassium - K%). Under saline conditions, significant enhancements were observed in fruit characteristics and yield metrics with the application of AsA and BS individually, with the combined treatment yielding the most substantial improvements. Notably, AsA and BS treatments exhibited varying effects on TSS levels, chlorophyll content, electrolyte leakage, and enzyme activities, with the combination treatment consistently demonstrating superior outcomes. Additionally, nutrient content analysis revealed notable increases, particularly under non-saline conditions, with the combined treatment showcasing the most significant enhancements. Overall, the study underscores the potential of AsA and BS treatments in promoting tomato resilience, offering insights into their synergistic effects on multiple physiological and biochemical parameters crucial for plant growth and productivity.

Determination of the effect of GA3 applications on plant development, nutrient content change and analysis of root architectural features using ML artificial neural network modelling in Tulipa saxatilis

Determination of the effect of GA₃ applications on plant development, nutrient content change and analysis of root architectural features using ML artificial neural network modelling in <i>Tulipa saxatilis</i>

Effects of Replacing Cow's Milk with Plant-Based Beverages on Potential Nutrient Intake in Sustainable Healthy Dietary Patterns: A Case Study.

More consumers are replacing cow's milk (CM) with plant-based drinks (PBD), but data indicating the nutritional impact are limited. This theoretical study aims to assess the effect of substituting CM with PBD sold in Italy on nutrient intake within two dietary patterns: one aligned with the EAT-Lancet Commission reference diet adapted to Italian food habits (EAT-IT) and another one in line with the Italian Dietary Guidelines (IDG). Nutrition information from 368 PBD were collected and categorized according to their descriptive name and their fortification or not with calcium (Ca- and nCa-fortified). The substitution of CM with each PBD category in both dietary patterns was conducted, and an analysis of nutrient content and adequacy was performed. Substituting CM with all PBD resulted in reduced protein intake, except for nCa-fortified soy drinks, decreased saturated fat and vitamins B2 and B12, and increased fiber intake. Replacing CM with nCa-fortified PBD within both diets decreased Ca intake. Following the substitution of CM with Ca-fortified PBD, variations in vitamin D intake depended on the PBD category. The main risk of nutritional inadequacy was observed in Ca and vitamin D levels, which may even be amplified considering the different bioavailability based on the source of nutrients. This study highlighted the important role of CM in meeting calcium requirements and the potential unintended consequences of substituting CM with PBD without considering their nutritional differences.

Analysis of Nutrient and Heavy Metal Contents of Historical Apple Varieties Growing in the Eastern Anatolia Region of Türkiye

Analysis of Nutrient and Heavy Metal Contents of Historical Apple Varieties Growing in the Eastern Anatolia Region of Türkiye

Optimizing Sweet Cherry Attributes through Magnesium and Potassium Fertilization

Plant nutrition through fertilizer application plays a crucial role in enhancing crop quality and yield, necessitating a balanced fertilization approach. Sweet cherry, esteemed as one of the most prized crops worldwide, was the focus of this three-year study spanning from 2019 to 2021, involving the sweet cherry cultivar Burlat. This study investigated the foliar application of magnesium (Mg) and potassium (K) to enhance fruit quality parameters. Different doses of Mg (250 g hL−1 and 125 g hL−1) and K (100 g hL−1 and 50 g hL−1) and a control treatment were administered to sweet cherry trees to assess their impact on fruit quality. At the commercial ripening stage, fruits from each treatment were harvested for comprehensive evaluation, including biometric and chromatic parameters, fruit firmness, routine parameters, sensory profile, and nutrient content analysis. Results from the study revealed notable enhancements in fruit weight and dimensions, particularly in the control treatment in 2020. Furthermore, Mg125 and Mg250 treatments exhibited improved color development and accelerated maturity by increasing the total soluble solids content while decreasing titratable acidity. Sensorial profiling indicated that Mg125 and Mg250 treatments intensified color intensity and sweet taste while mitigating sour taste perceptions. Conversely, potassium fertilization, especially the K50 treatment, led to increased fruit firmness and nutrient content. These findings offer valuable insights into optimizing sweet cherry production practices globally.

Effect of Harvesting Time in Growth Performance and Energy Crops Productivity of Napier (&lt;i&gt;Pennisetum purpureum cv&lt;/i&gt;. Taiwan) Exposed under CO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; Elevated Conditions

Napier grass is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by substituting non-renewable resources. When Napier grass is burned, the carbon dioxide (CO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;) released is roughly equal to the amount absorbed during its growth, making it a potentially carbon-neutral energy source. This study investigates the impact of ratooning (repeated harvesting) on various aspects of Napier grass, including growth, physiology, biomass production, nutrient content, and chemical analysis. It also explored the interaction between elevated CO&gt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; levels and ratooning. Two experiments were conducted over 12 months. Experiment 1 took place in an open field at the Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), with two treatments: no ratooning and ratooning at three months after planting (MAP). Experiment 2 was conducted in an open field at UPM and a greenhouse at Tenaga National Berhad Research, Kajang, Selangor. Eight combination treatments were studied: (T1) 1-month elevated CO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; (MECO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;) - no ratooned, (T2) 1 MECO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-R at 3 MAP, (T3) 2 MECO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-noR, (T4) 2 MECO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-R at 3 MAP, (T5) 5 MECO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-noR, (T6) 5 MECO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-R at 3 MAP, (T7) 12 MECO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-noR, and (T8) 12 MECO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-R at 3 MAP. The results indicated that, in Experiment 1, no ratooning was more favourable for all parameters compared to ratooning. In Experiment 2, a 1-month exposure to elevated CO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; showed better results compared to longer exposure periods. In conclusion, Napier grass performed better when not subjected to ratooning and exposed to short-term elevated CO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; levels. This research highlights the potential of Napier grass as a sustainable and carbon-neutral energy source.

Effect of solution plasma process on microorganism sterilization, physicochemical properties and nutrients of milk

Solution plasma process (SPP) was used for sterilizing Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) in raw milk (RM). The sterilization efficacy analysis and kinetics analysis showed bacterial concentration and the distance between electrodes were negatively correlated with the sterilization effect, while discharge voltage was positive. The better sterilization effect was achieved at 4 kV. The electrochemical indices analysis indicated that pH value of RM had no changed. The DO content decreased. The conductivity increased with the increasing discharge voltage. The nutrient content analysis revealed that the content of acidity, lactose, fat, and protein decreased. RM after SPP treatment exhibited higher values of sourness and slightly lower values of astringency than the control. The higher discharge voltage and narrower distance between electrodes presented the stronger effect. The structural characterization of CMs and MFGs was carried out using a laser particle sizer, FTIR, 1H NMR, XRD, and AFM. The results showed that the main chemical structure of CMs was unchanged basically. The SPP with the narrower distance between electrodes and lower discharge voltage significantly reduced the size and aggregation of MFGs at the molecular level. At 4 kV/2 mm, the particle sizes of CMs and MFGs were reduced from 238 nm and 523 nm to 224 nm and 302 nm, respectively. The average diameter of MFGs was reduced from 45 nm to 18 nm. Therefore, SPP is a potential method in the milk industry and provides a new idea for the preservation and processing of beverage.

Formulasi dan Analisa Kandungan Zat Gizi pada Formulasi Puding Sedot

Product modification can be used as an intervention method to prevent nutritional problems. The addition of ingredients that have certain nutrients can be used in the modification process, thereby increasing the product's superiority and affecting the quality of the resulting product. It is necessary to analyze the nutrient content to decide whether the nutrients in the product are convenient with the specified nutritional adequacy claim. The purpose of this study was formulating suction puding made from high protein ingredients and analyzing the nutrient content. This research was a quantitative study included in the experimental design to determine the nutritional content of moisture, ash, fat, protein, and carbohydrate content in the formulation of suction puding. Formulation was carried out in dietetic and culinary laboratory and Analysis of nutrient content was carried out at the Laboratory of Chemistry and Microbiology of Agricultural Products, Department of Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Sriwijaya University. Data analysis in this study is bivariate using ANOVA test if the data is normally distributed and Duncan's further test, while data that is not normally distributed uses Kruskall-Wallis test and Mann-Withney further test. The results was formulation samples consisted of four different recipes of suction puding formulations (A, B, C and D) then the bivariate analysis in this study showed significant differences in water, fat, protein, and carbohydrate content (p&lt;0.05), while in ash content there was no significant difference in the various formulations (p&gt;0.05).

Halal aspect and nutritional potential of telang (Clitoria ternatea L.) flower kombucha

Abstract Public awareness of halal aspects is increasing, especially for foods. Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) states that fermented drinks are halal if they contain alcohol below 0.5%. Several compounds are produced during the fermentation process in kombucha, including the compound ethanol (alcohol). This research aims to analyze the alcohol content and nutritional content of telang (Clitoria ternatea L.) flower kombucha drinks to fulfil halal aspects and nutritional potential. This research is an experimental study using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with one factor, namely storage time at five observation points (0 weeks, 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, and 4 weeks). The alcohol content was analyzed using a method using Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detection- Head Space (GC-FID). Nutrient content analysis consists of analysis of water, ash, energy, energy from fat and protein content, and carbohydrate analysis carried out by difference. Total sugar content was analyzed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The alcohol content increases during the storage period. Alcohol content is in the range of 0.15-0.17%. This content meets halal aspects with a content of &lt;0.5% following MUI regulations. Statistical analysis using ANOVA showed that storage had no significant effect on alcohol content (p&gt;0.05). Telang flower kombucha contains 117.46 calories of energy, 29.37 grams of carbohydrates, 0.02 grams of fat, 0.04 grams of protein, and 16 grams of sugar per 100 ml.

PO-MU-MA Emergency food bar: nutritional, microbial, sensorial, and cost analysis

In 2015, 62.6 million women and children received food assistance in emergencies. However, they are usually provided with foods containing sufficient energy rather than a balanced diet. A nutrient-dense emergency food bar (PO-MU-MA) was made from local ingredients: potato (Solanum t.), mung bean (Vigna radiata l.), and malunggay (Moringa o.) to optimize local foods and aimed to evaluate its sensorial acceptability, nutrient content, microbial load, moisture content, and cost analysis. An experimental design was used for the three (3) formulations with 25D consisting of 18g of potato and mung bean flour, 5.15 g of malunggay-infused water, and other ingredients. 99Z and Q2Y have the same ingredients but with potato flour and mung bean flour in different ratios, namely, 27g potato flour and 9g mung bean flour for 99Z and 9g potato flour and 27g mung bean flour in Q2Y. For appearance (color) and aroma, 99Z is the most acceptable. The acceptability in terms of taste is the same. For texture, Q2Y was chosen, as well as for overall acceptability. Nutrient analysis of the most acceptable product formulation showed an energy content of 461 kcal per 100g, sufficient to provide 22% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance for energy. The carbohydrate content per 100g is 56.25g, protein is 8.30g, and fat is 22.6g. For microbial load, yeast and mold are low (40 CFU/g), while E. coli and Salmonella are both negative, making the product safe for consumption. Furthermore, the food bar has a low moisture content (11%). For product costing, it shows that 100g of the product costs PHP 28.36. Generally, the PO-MU-MA Emergency Food Bar is recommended for food and nutrition needs in emergencies.

Evaluation of oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) productivity on peatlands based on DRIS analysis of leaf nutrient content in Siak District of Indonesia

Indonesia is the largest producer of oil palm in the world, with Riau Province particularly Siak District being the major contributor. The study focused on oil palm plantations within Siak District, characterized by a tropical rainforest climate of high humidity. The soil type in this area was a peatland with sapric and hemic maturity. The planting material used primarily consists of the DxP Marihat variety, which was planted between 1995-2005, with an average potential fresh fruit bunch productivity of 29.00 tons/ha/year. Variations in nutrient contents in oil palm leaf were observed across each block of the study location. Diagnosis and recommendation integrated system (DRIS) analysis was conducted on found number 17 to determine the key nutrients required to increase oil palm productivity. This method consists of several stages, including norm analysis, DRIS index, nutrient balance index (NBI), optimum leaf nutrient value, and leaf nutrient interval. Data was obtained from 312 leaf nutrient analyses and fresh fruit bunch productivity across 39 blocks for the period between 2015 and 2022. A value of 26.33 tons/ha/year, derived from DRIS norm calculation, indicated the border between high and low productivity blocks. The results showed that the order of macronutrient and micronutrient requirements in high productivity blocks was N&gt;P&gt;K&gt;Ca&gt;Mg and B&gt;Cu&gt;Zn, while in low productivity blocks, it was Ca&gt;Mg&gt;N&gt;K&gt;P and B&gt;Cu&gt;Zn. Regression of DRIS index and leaf nutrient content obtained optimum nutrient values of 2.78%, 0.16%, 1.02%, 0.66%, 0.35%, 29.51 ppm, 3.65 ppm, and 15.37 ppm for N, P, K, Ca, Mg, B, Cu, and Zn, respectively. Therefore, nutrients Ca and B were prioritized to increase the achievement of oil palm fresh fruit bunch productivity.

Product Development of Fresh Bread Substituted with Puree Taro Beneng (Xanthosoma undipes K. Koch) as an Alternative Food Source of Fiber in the Elderly

The purpose of this study was to determine the production of white bread as a substitute for puree taro beneng as a food source of fiber in the elderly. Knowing the acceptability of panelists to plain bread with taro beneng puree substitution 25%, 50% and 75% from the aspect of color, aroma, taste and texture. Knowing the nutritional content (ash content, moisture content, carbohydrate content, fat content, protein content and fiber content). This type of research is experimental research with a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of 1 control and 3 treatments for formulation development from the number of substitutes for beneng taro puree (Xanthosoma undipes K. Koch), namely: F1 (75% wheat flour: 25% taro puree), F2 (50% wheat flour: 50% taro puree), F3 (25% wheat flour: 75% taro puree). The acceptance test used 30 elderly panelists with a hedonic test (very like, like, somewhat like, don't like, really don't like). The data analysis technique was carried out descriptively and analyzed using the Kruskal Wallis test method and the follow-up test using the Man-Whitney. The research results showed that the best white bread that was most popular with the panelists based on the acceptability test results was the F2 treatment (50% wheat flour: 50% taro puree) with average values ​​for color (3.77), aroma (3.8), taste and texture (4.23). The results of the analysis of nutrient content were 31.79% water content, 1.80% ash content, 49.1 gr carbohydrates, 8.81 gr protein, 9.08 gr fat and 4.51 gr crude fiber.

Investigating aluminum toxicity effects on callose deposition, oxidative stress, and nutrient homeostasis in banana genotypes.

Aluminum (Al) toxicity poses a significant challenge to agricultural productivity, particularly in acidic soils. The banana crop, predominantly cultivated in tropical and subtropical climates, often grapples with low pH and Al toxicity. This study seeks to explore the differential responses of two banana genotypes with varying Al tolerance (Baodao and Baxi) to Al exposure (100 and 500 µM) for 24 h. Microscopic analysis uncovered distinctive structural modifications in root cells, with Baodao displaying more severe alterations in response to Al stress. There was higher superoxide (O2-.) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production and lipid peroxidation in Baodao indicating enhanced oxidative stress and membrane damage. Al accumulation in root tips was higher in Baxi than Baodao, while the roots of Baodao had a higher accumulation of callose. Nutrient content analysis revealed alterations in ion levels, highlighting the impact of Al exposure on nutrient uptake and homeostasis. In summary, Al differentially affects callose deposition, which, in turn, leads to Al uptake and nutrient homeostasis alteration in two contrasting banana genotypes. This intricate interplay is a key factor in understanding plant responses to aluminum toxicity and can inform strategies for crop improvement and soil management in aluminum-stressed environments.

Effect of Pretreatment and Drying on the Nutritional and Functional Quality of Raisins Produced with Seedless Purple Grapes.

Raisins, known for their delicious taste and high nutritional value, are among the most widely consumed dried fruits globally. The natural waxy layer on the surface of grapes impedes water migration, making pretreatment necessary before drying. This study evaluated the effects of various pretreatment methods on the nutritional and functional quality of seedless purple raisins. By using non-pretreated dry seedless purple raisins as a control, the impact of physical and chemical pretreatment methods on the nutritional and functional qualities of seedless purple raisins was assessed through the analysis of nutrient content, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity. Our results demonstrate that physical pretreatment significantly increases the levels of vitamin C, fructose, glucose, total acid, total phenolics, total flavonoids, total anthocyanins, and antioxidant activity compared to chemical pretreatment and the control group. The correlation analysis revealed that phenolic substances were closely linked to antioxidant capacity. Additionally, phenolic compounds, including resveratrol, ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid, ethyl coumarate, and cinnamic acid, were more abundant following physical pretreatment. The OPLS-DA model effectively differentiated the three groups of processed samples, showing that different pretreatments significantly affect the nutritional and functional quality of seedless purple raisins. These findings suggest that physical pretreatment offers considerable potential for improving the drying quality of seedless purple raisins.

THE EVALUATION OF COMPOSTED FOOD WASTE EFFECTS IN CONSERVING AND ENHANCING GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF AZOLLA PINNATA

Compost has a significant conservation benefit for soils by increasing organic matter levels and enhancing soil fertility, thus positively influencing plant growth. This study aims to evaluate the impacts of utilizing different types of composted food waste to improve the growth performance of Azolla Pinnata. Composting mixed food waste (MFW), vegetable waste (VW), and fruit waste (FW) was conducted using the Takakura Composting Method, incorporating effective microorganisms (EM). Analysis of pH, temperature, moisture content, nutrient content (TN, TP, K), and heavy metal concentrations were done throughout the 30-day composting process. The Germination Index (GI) and Compost Quality Index (CQI) were employed to evaluate compost quality and phytotoxicity levels. Results demonstrated that all composted food waste samples met the criteria for high-quality compost, except for slight residual phytotoxicity observed in FW (GI of 79.3%). Notably, the integration of Azolla Pinnata with composted food waste significantly influenced the growth performance (biomass, relative growth rate and doubling time), with the most substantial enhancements of doubling time achieved using MFW treatments (1.94 days), followed by FW (2.02 days) and VW (2.07 days). This research underscores the potential for Azolla Pinnata integrated with composted food waste as a chemical-free fertilizer, offering promise for conservation efforts and sustainable agricultural practices.

Autumnal Potassium Induced Modulations in Plant Osmoprotectant Substances, Nutrient Stoichiometry and Precision Sustainable Seedling Cultivation in Parashorea chinensis

Parashorea chinensis, an endemic tree species in China’s tropical rainforests, holds ecological and economic importance. Challenges like low resistance, poor quality, and low survival rates hinder its successful cultivation. This study explores the potential of autumn potassium fertilization on Parashorea seedlings from two provenances (Napo and Tianyang). The treatments included no fertilizer (CK-1), a single application of 160 mg K·plant−1 (CK-2), and various potassium levels K1, K2, K3, K4, K5, and K6 (corresponding to 0, 40, 80, 160, 320, and 640 mg·K·plant−1, respectively) combined with nitrogen (200 mg·plant−1) and phosphorus (80 mg·plant−1) fertilization. The findings indicate that autumn potassium application, in conjunction with nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilization, significantly enhances seedling height and biomass in both provenances, resulting in an average increase of 101% and 89% under the K4 treatment compared to CK-1 and CK-2, comparatively. Both Napo and Tianyang provenances exhibited distinct responses in photosynthetic rate (2.70 μmol·m−2·s−1 and 1.97 μmol·m−2·s−1, respectively) and stomatal conductance (0.042 mol·m−2·s−1 and 0.029 mol·m−2·s−1, respectively) to the K4 treatment, which proved most effective. The chlorophyll content was significantly higher for Napo provenance with the K3 treatment (74.31%, 58.99%), while for Tianyang, it was higher with the K4 treatment (41.48%, 17.36%), compared to CK-1 and CK-2, respectively. Antioxidant enzymes activity, osmoregulatory capacity, and malondialdehyde content all exhibited variations with potassium application levels, with the K4 treatment offering significant benefits. In Napo provenance, lignin (199.82 mg·g−1) and cellulose (252.38 mg·g−1) peaked at K4, while Tianyang exhibited variation, higher lignin (184.25 mg·g−1) at K3, and cellulose (257.73 mg·g−1) at K4. Nutrient content analysis demonstrates that the K4 treatment enhances nutrient absorption and storage, increasing total N (21.56 mg·kg−1), P (4.69 mg·kg−1), and K (13.49 mg·kg−1) content. A comprehensive analysis reveals that the K4 treatment yields the highest quality scores (1.87, 1.85) and membership values (0.82, 0.68) for both Napo and Tianyang seedlings, with Napo seedlings outperforming their Tianyang provenance. Thus, treatment K4 underscores the effectiveness of autumn potassium applications for robust seedling cultivation and adaptation, offering valuable insights for sustainable cultivation practices.

The Prediction of Nitrogen, Phosphate, and Potassium Contents of Oil Palm Leaf Using Hand-Held Spectrometer

A hand-held spectrometer can be used to evaluate oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) leaf nutrient contents without being destructive. This study aims to develop regression equations and analyze the performance of the prediction models for Nitrogen, Phosphate, and Potassium leaf nutrient contents. The dependent variable in this study was the result of the analysis of nutrient contents in frond number 17 which was carried out in the laboratory, while the independent variable was the leaf reflectance value scanned with a hand-held spectrometer. The Normalized Difference approach is used to create a vegetation index from the combination of reflectance values at two wavelengths. Vegetation index with the highest correlation value to the nutrient content of leaves, is used to make a prediction model for leaf nutrients using the Simple Linear Regression. The regression equations formed to predict the contents of nutrients N, P, and K have high R2. The RMSE values of the predicted contents of N, P, and K nutrients, respectively were 0.21, 0.01, and 0.13; and correctness values of those nutrients respectively were 93.29%, 95.5%, and 88.81%. Keywords: Hand-held spectrometer, Oil palm, Prediction, Leaf nutrients contents.

Agro-Climatic Factors and Their Influence on Sustainable Soybean Production

This research explores the impact of intercropping corn and soybean, along with the combined effects of Azolla pinnata dose, the best soybean variety, and cytokinin concentration, on enhancing the physiology and agronomy of the plants. The study was conducted using 36 experimental units in a plot between soybean and corn. Various parameters were observed, including seed viability and vigor, soil analysis, nutrient content analysis of POC Azolla pinnata, temperature, air humidity, sunlight radiation, rainfall, pest infestation, diseases, and weeds. Additionally, plant height, leaf count, secondary branch count, total plant dry weight, leaf chlorophyll, leaf area ratio, leaf chlorophyll index, and stomatal conductance were measured. The data were analyzed using Djajasukanta and Sitompul-Guritno calculations, focusing on the average relative growth rate (RGR), average net assimilation rate (NAR), and root-shoot ratio (RSR). The results demonstrated that intercropping corn and soybean with the combination of Azolla pinnata dose, the best soybean variety, and cytokinin concentration had a positive impact on soybean production and quality. The Anjasmoro variety showed favorable outcomes in various parameters, such as plant height, leaf count, and branch count. Physiological leaf analysis revealed that the treatment combination with the Anjasmoro variety exhibited optimal photosynthetic rates and chlorophyll content, indicating higher photosynthesis efficiency. Moreover, the treatment with the Dega 1 variety displayed faster growth and efficient resource allocation, as evident from the high RSR value. The selection of the best soybean variety, Azolla pinnata dose, and cytokinin concentration can lead to sustainable improvements in soybean crop yield. These findings hold significant implications for agricultural management and enhancing food security.

Enhancing Chickpea Yield and Nutrient Profile Through Phosphorous and Zinc Application

The field experiments conducted at the Student’s Instructional Farm, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, during the rabi season of 2021–22 aimed to investigate the impact of phosphorus and zinc on both yield and quality parameters of chickpea. Employing a factorial randomized block design with 16 treatment combinations and three replications, various combinations of phosphorus and zinc were tested, using the chickpea cultivar RVG-203 and following prescribed agricultural techniques. The most promising results were observed in treatment T15 [P90Zn6 ], which yielded the highest grain yield (18.65 q ha-1) and straw yield (21.86 q ha-1). Conversely, treatment T0 [P0 Zn0 ] exhibited the lowest grain yield (13.24 q ha-1) and straw yield (17.92 qha-1). Furthermore, nutrient content analysis showcased that treatment T15 [P90Zn6 ] boasted maximum values for grain nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and zinc (Zn) content at 3.35%, 0.65%, 0.65%, and 0.27 mg kg-1, respectively. In contrast, treatment T0 [P0 Zn0 ] displayed the minimum values in these parameters at 3.13%, 0.46%, 0.53%, and 0.20 mg kg-1, respectively. Similar trends were observed in the nutrient content of straw. Nutrient uptake analysis further emphasized the superiority of the treatment T15 [P90Zn6 ], recording maximum values for grain nitrogen (63.15 kg ha-1), phosphorus (12.25 kg ha-1), potassium (12.25 kg ha-1), and zinc (49.91 g ha-1), as well as in straw nitrogen (33.16 kg ha-1), phosphorus (7.47 kg ha-1), potassium (43.66 kg ha-1), and zinc (52.27 g ha-1). Conversely, treatment T0 [P0 Zn0 ] exhibited the lowest nutrient uptake for both grain and straw. In conclusion, the comprehensive analysis of treatment combinations demonstrated that the judicious application of phosphorus and zinc, as exemplified by treatment T15 [P90Zn6 ], significantly enhances chickpea yield and quality parameters, emphasizing the importance of balanced nutrient management for optimal agricultural productivity.